While not every personal injury claim will result in a successful settlement offer, the vast majority of injury cases are often resolved through settlement negotiations. Having the guidance of a personal injury lawyer is the most efficient way to get the resources you need to achieve a satisfactory outcome. To ensure you are properly prepared for the proceedings, consider the following breakdown of how personal injury claims are settled. 

The Steps Involved in Settling a Personal Injury Claim

1. An Offer Is Made

A defendant can make a settlement offer at any point during the legal process as long as a final verdict has not been handed down. This means you could receive an offer before a lawsuit is even filed, during a trial, or even when a jury is in deliberations. When an offer is put on the table, the defendant's legal counsel will contact your personal injury lawyer and discuss the details of the settlement they're suggesting.

2. Your Attorney Offers Advice

Your attorney will give you an idea of what is an acceptable settlement and when there may be room for negotiation. Whether or not you accept the offer is ultimately up to you, but heed your lawyer's advice and carefully consider their insight. They know injury law well and can recognize what is a good settlement and what is not.

3. Negotiations Are Made

If you elect to try for a higher settlement, communicate this to your attorney and let them handle the negotiations. They will speak on your behalf and look out for your interests throughout all dealings with the opposing counsel. In many cases, a defendant will then make another, higher offer that you can choose to accept or negotiate further.

4.Your Case Is Resolved

If a settlement that meets your needs and expectations is arrived at, you will be asked to sign some paperwork agreeing to the terms of the agreement and the offer provided. This will bring an end to your legal case. Within a specified time frame, the defendant will send you a check for the settlement amount you have both agreed to.

If you have a personal injury claim, and you need an attorney to represent you during the proceedings, the law firm of Estep & Estep is here for you. These top-quality, experienced lawyers have served the Tazewell, TN, area since 1953. Call (423) 626-3525 to schedule a consultation, and visit their website for more information on their services.