A personal injury lawsuit consists of a series of steps and a process through which a victim of an injury can file suit to demand compensation for the injuries and ensuing losses from a personal injury accident. Each personal injury case varies, and the time it takes for one is not a good indication of what it will take for your case to resolve. Speaking with your attorney can help you understand what to expect in your case, the timeline of a personal injury lawsuit, and the steps involved. Acceptance of Your Case, Hiring of a Personal Injury Attorney Filing a lawsuit without an attorney, while technically possible, is never a good idea. Hiring an attorney to represent you in your personal injury case is the first step in the fight for compensation in your case. To hire a lawyer, you must first schedule a consultation. During this initial consultation, the attorney’s office will listen to the case details and may let you know whether they can accept your case to represent you. If they accept your case, you may then proceed to hire the attorney on your behalf and agree to the terms of their representation and fees if you get compensation in your case. Building Your Case Once you are officially a client, your lawyer will investigate the case and gather whatever evidence supports your claim—for example, what caused the events leading to your injuries, who is responsible, and the estimated damages you have and may incur. Attorneys will also acquire and request testimony from experts or other witnesses with insights into your injuries or recovery. Negotiating on Your Behalf Negotiations are a crucial part of every personal injury case. If negotiations with an insurance company or party at fault succeed, you may get compensation for your losses while avoiding the necessity of going to court. When negotiations are not fruitful or reach a standstill, a lawsuit becomes the logical next step for a plaintiff seeking the recovery of their damages after a personal injury. If you receive a settlement offer you want to accept you can consult with your attorney to take the offer and avoid a trial. Your lawyer can provide an in-depth analysis of the offers you receive and what they think you may or may not get through a trial. Filing a Lawsuit At some point, your attorney will speak with you about when to file a lawsuit in court. Filing a lawsuit can occur at any time following a personal injury incident so long as it is within the statute of limitations in your state. These statutes can indicate as little as one year or several years from the date of the accident. Knowing and discussing the statute of limitations for your state is essential to ensure you protect your rights and take action promptly for your case. Discovery and Mediation As part of a personal injury lawsuit, your attorney will engage in the discovery process with the other party or parties in the case. During this process, you can find out what evidence the other case may rely on and their views of the case. In some states, the court may also order mediation between the parties to try for a resolution that avoids trial and further intervention by the court. Personal Injury Trial If negotiations and mediations are unsuccessful, your case may go to trial. During a personal injury trial, each side will present evidence, arguments, and witnesses to support their position. After presenting the evidence, the court will decide the case. The trial verdict can decide who caused your personal injury and include an award for your damages if the court decides the law entitles you to one.