Like the incidents that caused them, every personal injury case is unique. However, there are common steps taken by your attorney to see that justice is done and that you receive compensation for the pain you’ve sustained. 

What Are the Steps in a Personal Injury Case?

1. Your Lawyer Investigates

After you’ve retained an attorney, they’ll ask you questions about your case. They’ll inquire about what led up to the accident, the injuries you sustained, and the medical treatment you received. Answer their questions honestly and with as much detail as possible. If the case moves forward, they want to be prepared for anything the defense might use. 

Your attorney will also ask for your medical records and bills relating to your injuries and treatment. These records can be used to prove the severity of your injuries and the bills can be used when negotiating damages. 

2. Filing a Lawsuit

Since most personal injury cases settle outside of court, filing a lawsuit might be unnecessary. However, if a proper settlement can’t be reached, your case will move forward. Your lawyer will file an official complaint and begin reaching out to medical professionals who will attest to the extent of your injuries.

3. Discovery

The attorneys from both sides will investigate the incident that caused the injury. They’ll exchange questions they want to be answered by the plaintiff and the defendant. Both parties will go through depositions, reviewing what happened from their point of view while also answering questions from opposing attorneys. 

Witnesses and relevant professionals will also be questioned. 

4. Mediation

After discovery ends, both attorneys will have more information about the case. They’ll use this information to try to negotiate a settlement. Usually, the lawyers will discuss the terms together. However, in more complicated cases, a neutral third party will be brought in as a mediator. 

5. Settlement or Trial

Most likely, both parties will be able to reach an agreement. The plaintiff will accept the settlement amount, and the defendant will be released from future liability regarding this case. They will sign the necessary paperwork, as will the insurance companies and the attorneys. 

In the unlikely event that a settlement isn’t reached, the case will go to trial in civil court, though settlement negotiations between the two sides will continue. 

If the negligence of another has harmed you, you could be entitled to damages. For legal representation, reach out to Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. Based in Lake Saint Louis, MO, and representing clients throughout the surrounding areas, they have over 75 years of combined experience in personal injury cases. They’ll guide you through every step of the process and work aggressively to hold the responsible party accountable. For more information on their practice areas, visit their website. To schedule a free consultation, call (636) 561-5599.