What Is the Average Timeline for an Accident Lawyer Case?
The timeline for an accident lawyer case can vary significantly depending on the specifics of each case. However, to give you a general idea, it typically takes between one and two years from the time of the accident until a personal injury lawsuit is resolved. This average timeline is based on several stages that must be completed before a settlement or verdict can be reached.
The first stage after an accident occurs involves seeking medical treatment and documenting injuries. This process could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of injuries sustained and how long it takes for them to heal or stabilize. During this period, it’s crucial to keep all medical records and bills as they will serve as evidence in your case.
Once you’ve recovered enough physically, the next step is hiring an attorney if you haven’t done so already. The attorney will then begin investigating your claim and gathering evidence. This includes obtaining police reports, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, etc., which may take several weeks or even months.
After collecting all necessary information, your attorney will usually attempt to negotiate with the insurance company involved in hopes of reaching a fair settlement without having to go through court proceedings. These negotiations could last anywhere from one month up to six months or more depending upon how cooperative the insurance company is being.
If negotiations fail to result in a satisfactory settlement offer, your lawyer will file a lawsuit on your behalf which initiates formal legal proceedings. From here onwards, things generally slow down due largely in part because courts are often backlogged with cases.
The discovery phase follows where both sides exchange information pertinent to their respective cases; this phase alone may last six months or longer due to its complexity and thoroughness required by law.
Following discovery comes mediation where both parties try once again settling their dispute before going trial; however if unsuccessful then trial dates are set which might not occur until at least one year after filing suit because court schedules tend often fill up fast.
The trial itself could last anywhere from a day to several weeks, and even after the verdict is given, there may be appeals or post-trial motions that extend the timeline further. In some complex cases, it can take several years for a final resolution to be reached.
In conclusion, while an average accident lawyer case might take one to two years, remember that each case is unique and timelines can vary greatly. It’s important to maintain regular communication with your attorney throughout this process so you understand exactly where your case stands at any given time.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
606 Court St, Reading, PA 19601
16108314234