Last updated on June 22, 2023
The likelihood is that your personal injury claim will reach a negotiated settlement after a demand has been submitted to the insurance company and before a lawsuit is ever filed. In fact, the vast majority of the personal injury claims handled by our attorneys at Pendergast Law are resolved without lawsuits.
When your claim cannot be resolved to your satisfaction, however, you will have the option of filing a lawsuit, and our Seattle accident attorneys will work with you to explain the steps in the legal process.
Four Steps To Expect After Filing A Lawsuit
Typically, this is what happens when you decide to file a lawsuit:
- Your attorney will prepare a complaint: This is a legal document that lays out your claims.
- The defendant will file an answer to the complaint: This typically involves the defendant admitting to or defending against portions of the complaint and stating any of their own claims.
- The parties involved will exchange documents: Your attorney will exchange documents and other key relevant information with the other party’s attorney. Known as “discovery,” this can look different in every case. Your attorney will advise you on what to expect.
- The case may resolve in a pretrial settlement: While it’s not always the case, at this point, the parties may reach an agreement without the court’s involvement that resolves all issues. If the parties do not reach an agreement, the case will go to trial.
What Happens At Trial?
When the case goes to trial, each party’s attorney will argue their side by presenting evidence and relevant information to the judge and jury. It is then up to the judge and jury to resolve the issues by reaching a decision.
Regardless of who wins the case, either party can appeal the decision to a higher court. However, it is important to note that the parties typically cannot appeal a settlement if both sides previously agreed to the terms.
Have Questions? Contact Our Legal Team.
Our highly qualified Washington personal injury attorneys at Pendergast Law will provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation regarding your injury case. Simply contact us about your injury or call toll-free at 888-539-9211.