Contentious family law disputes, injuries caused by someone else’s negligence, or violated contracts often leave individuals with no recourse but to file a lawsuit. While the legal system does provide avenues through which injured parties can seek relief, civil lawsuits can be expensive and time-consuming with no guarantee of a successful outcome. In most cases, your attorney may recommend striving to settle out of court before taking your case before a judge.

Courtroom Trials vs. Settling Out of Court

Out-of-Court Settlements

According to the most recently available figures, approximately 95% of civil cases ended in out-of-court settlements. Private agreements arranged between two parties have some attractive benefits over a courtroom trial, not the least of which is control over the outcome. While a trial is an unpredictable process with no guaranteed result, a negotiated settlement eliminates the risk of going through a long, expensive trial, only to receive nothing. Because it’s so much faster than a trial, settling a case typically reduces your attorney’s fees and other expenses.

Courtroom Trials

While parties can typically reach a negotiated agreement, common ground may sometimes be impossible to find. When parties are unable to resolve their differences, they often have no choice but to argue their case before a judge or jury. While often longer and more expensive than a settlement, filing a lawsuit does offer some advantages, especially when the other side refuses to negotiate in good faith or make a fair offer. After the attorneys are finished presenting evidence and arguing their respective cases, the judge will return a verdict that has the force of a court order.

No matter what type of legal conflict you’re involved in, achieving justice may depend on the skills and expertise of your attorney. Over the years, Kirksey Law Firm LLC has built a reputation throughout Bolivar, MO, for experience, integrity, and getting results for their clients across a broad range of practice areas. Follow the law firm on Facebook for more insight into the legal system, and call (417) 326-4529 or visit their website to arrange a consultation with an attorney today.