When you pursue a civil lawsuit, such as a personal injury claim, there’s always the possibility of settling your case without a trial. This is called a settlement, and it involves both parties negotiating terms that will allow the plaintiff to recover from the damages. Here’s more about this process and why it’s sometimes preferred over a trial.

FAQ About Personal Injury Settlements

Why are cases settled?

A case may be settled out of court if both parties feel that negotiating a settlement will be significantly quicker than going through a full trial. The defendant occasionally opts to settle if the settlement will cost less than going through a trial. In this instance, the plaintiff can receive their compensation quickly and use those funds to recover as soon as possible

How is a settlement determined?

If the plaintiff has a strong case, their attorney can negotiate for a high settlement offer. The plaintiff’s damages are factored into determining this amount, so showing proof of injuries and corresponding medical treatment will be necessary. Once the injuries are validated, the settlement will be determined so that it’s enough to pay for any livelihood, medical, financial, or employment repercussions.

What’s a structured settlement?

It’s common for a plaintiff to receive a structured settlement for a personal injury claim. Instead of one lump sum, this type of settlement will be administered throughout numerous, equal payments over the course of several months. This makes it easier for the defendant to pay a larger settlement.

What’s involved in a class action settlement?

This is an offer that’s made to a large group of plaintiffs who are experiencing the same or similar damages. This type of civil lawsuit often involves defective products that affect multiple consumers in the same way. Rather than facing a lawsuit against several people, a company can offer a settlement, which will be divided among the plaintiffs.

If you want to file a personal injury claim, contact the attorneys at the Charles H. Brower Law Corporation in Honolulu, HI. Their team will help you build a case and negotiate on your behalf if you choose to settle. These legal professionals have decades of experience, and they provide each client with personalized service and counsel. Get more information about how they can support your case online, or call (808) 526-2688 to schedule a consultation.