Some car accident claims are so complex or involve major liability disputes, making settlement difficult, if not impossible. In these cases, the insurance company refused to offer a fair amount of compensation for damages. Although settlement is likely, sometimes settlement is not an option. If negotiations fail, the next step includes bringing a lawsuit against the driver and their insurance company. Once a claimant files a lawsuit, a settlement can still happen until the trial date. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer can advocate for you in the courtroom and present your case to a judge and jury. After the trial, the court determines whether the defendant is liable for damages related to the accident and your injuries. If the court rules in favor of the plaintiff, they will also award damages. The process for receiving compensation works the same after a court awards damages. The insurance company issues a payment for damages that typically goes to the law firm. The client receives any money left after the firm pays unpaid medical expenses and deducts attorney fees and other legal costs.