Settling a DC Personal Injury Case or Going to Trial

When a person is involved in a personal injury case in DC, they may have to choose between bringing the case to trial or accepting a settlement offer. There are different factors that should be considered when making this decision. This process may be made easier by consulting with a personal injury attorney in DC, as they will have the local experience and relevant knowledge to help an individual make an informed decision. By presenting all of the appropriate documentation and reviewing all the pertinent information and elements of the case, it should be possible to determine whether it would be more beneficial for an individual to take an offered settlement, or to continue to pursue the case by bringing it to trial.

Available Legal Options Following an Injury

Anyone who has been injured through the negligence of another has the right to be compensated for their injuries. The standard compensation that is available in the District of Columbia is financial compensation. Financial compensation can be obtained either through settlement or through initiating a lawsuit within the statute of limitations for the District of Colombia. The major consideration for a person who has filed a personal injury claim is whether to go to trial or settle their claim with the other party. 

When to Consider Settling a Case

There are many different considerations that go into whether or not a case should be settled. Generally, these considerations involve the evaluation of the individual claim. The decision to settle or go to trial is going to be unique to the facts and circumstances of every case and every settlement offer. Some of the considerations when deciding whether or not to settle or proceed to trial include the injured person’s status of recovery, the resources available to compensate the injured person, as well as the likelihood of success. Another factor to consider is the length of time it may take to reach a settlement v. the time commitment of a case going to trial. 

When to Consider Going to Trial

A person should never take a settlement offer that they are uncomfortable with. Settlement discussions are often protracted and emotional. It is advisable for any injured person to discuss any and all pertinent issues with an attorney and work through the issues individually in order to determine the most valuable and beneficial outcome for the person’s individual claim.

Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

When someone schedules an initial consultation with an attorney, they should take any and all information regarding how the accident occurred, any witness statements and any documentation of medical treatment. Essentially, all information and documentation is important when it comes to a personal injury case and a prospective client should bring everything to the initial consultation.

The benefit of having a personal injury attorney is that the injured person can rely upon the training and experience of the attorney to assist them in the settlement process. Ultimately, it is the client’s decision whether they want to settle their injury claim or bring it to trial. However, an attorney experienced in this field can advise the client as to the benefits of the settlement versus any risk associated with the trial and vice versa.