This question seems simple but in truth can require a very complex answer. Generally two stages to a personal injury case: they are what lawyers call the pre-suit stage and the litigation stage.
- The pre-suit stage is everything from the day of the accident itself up until the time an actual lawsuit is filed in the courthouse. During the pre-suit stage of a case, you will be treating for your injuries and we will be gathering the documentation and evidence needed to support your case.
- The litigation stage is everything that happens after a lawsuit is filed up until the case is settled either before or after a jury trial. During this stage the insurance company will hire an attorney to represent the person who caused the accident. A process known as discovery will take place. Discovery is just as it sounds. Each side will try to discover as much about the other side as possible through the use of requests for documents and information and by taking depositions of the parties, witnesses and medical providers. Near the end of the litigation stage there may be a mediation, or formal settlement conference and of course there may be a trial.
