It's common for people to have misperceptions about the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit. Understanding what goes into a successful claim, however, can help you make an informed decision on whether or not to pursue legal action.
Below are some common misconceptions about filing a personal injury lawsuit and why they’re inaccurate.
Myth 1: Filing a Claim Will be Time-Consuming
Although it’s true that a personal injury lawsuit can take months or even years to resolve, the actual process of filing the claim itself does not typically require a massive time commitment. Your attorney will handle most of the paperwork and court filings for you, so all you need to do is provide detailed information about your accident and answer any questions they may have.
Myth 2: You Need to Have Extensive Evidence & Documentation
Although evidence and documentation are certainly helpful in filing a personal injury lawsuit, it’s not always necessary to provide these materials before beginning the process. In fact, some of the most important evidence may be collected during the discovery phase of your case. Your attorney will work with you to ensure that all of the necessary evidence is collected during this process.
Myth 3: You Have to Go to Trial
This is one of the most common misconceptions about filing a personal injury lawsuit. The vast majority of these cases are actually settled out of court, which can save time and expense for both parties involved. Your attorney will be able to provide you with more information about the likelihood of your case going to trial and can work with opposing counsel to negotiate a settlement if that is in your best interest.
Myth 4: Your Settlement Will Go Straight to You
In most cases, any settlement or jury award obtained during a personal injury lawsuit will actually go through your attorney’s office first. This is to ensure that all of the legal fees associated with your case are accounted for and that any applicable taxes or court costs are paid. Your lawyer will then be able to provide you with a breakdown of how much money you can expect to receive from the settlement after these deductions are made.
Myth 5: All Personal Injury Cases Are the Same
No two personal injury cases are exactly alike, and each case will have its own unique set of circumstances. Your attorney can help you understand how your particular situation affects the outcome of your claim and can work with you to determine the best course of action for your specific case. A good lawyer will take the time to understand the details of your accident and then use this knowledge to build a strong argument in court.
Myth 6: You Don't Need an Attorney
It may be possible to file a personal injury lawsuit without an attorney, but it’s not recommended. An experienced lawyer can help make sure that all the necessary paperwork and court filings are completed correctly, and can also provide you with valuable advice throughout the process. Having a skilled attorney on your side will give you peace of mind knowing that your case is in capable hands.
Filing a personal injury lawsuit doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal. By taking the time to understand common misconceptions about the process, you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right move for you. Your attorney will be able to provide you with guidance and advice throughout your case, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional help.
Should you wish to schedule a consultation with our attorney at Paulsen Law Group, contact us online now!