Yes. The value of a case can indeed change mid-lawsuit, and there are several reasons why this may occur. Firstly, as the lawsuit progresses, new evidence may emerge that either strengthens or weakens the plaintiff's claims or the defendant's defenses. This evidence can include additional medical records, expert opinions, witness testimony, or documentation of the defendant's negligence.
Secondly, the plaintiff's injuries may evolve over time, leading to changes in their medical prognosis, treatment plan, and long-term prognosis. For example, a plaintiff may initially anticipate a certain level of recovery but later experience complications or setbacks that prolong their recovery period or result in additional medical expenses. Conversely, a plaintiff may show faster-than-expected improvement, leading to a reassessment of their damages.
Additionally, the defendant's insurance company may reassess the case's value based on various factors such as recent verdicts in similar cases, changes in the legal landscape, or strategic considerations. They may also adjust their valuation based on the plaintiff's willingness to negotiate, the strength of their legal representation, or the perceived risks of proceeding to trial.
Furthermore, court rulings or pre-trial motions may impact the case's value by affecting the scope of available damages or the admissibility of certain evidence. For example, a court may rule to exclude key evidence or limit the damages recoverable by the plaintiff, which can significantly impact the case's potential value.
Overall, the value of a case can fluctuate throughout the legal process due to a variety of factors, including evolving evidence, changes in the plaintiff's medical condition, strategic decisions by both parties, and legal developments.