When negotiations stall and a settlement isn’t attainable, a personal injury case may proceed to trial. Going to trial may feel daunting, but understanding the process can help alleviate stress.
In this article, we’ll walk you through each stage of a personal injury trial, offering clarity and insight into what lies ahead for you or a loved one.
Jury Selection and Opening Statements
A trial typically begins with jury selection, where attorneys for both sides select jurors from a pool of potential candidates. The objective is to form an unbiased jury to hear the case.
Once the jury is in place, the trial kicks off with opening statements. Your lawyer will present your story as the plaintiff, highlighting the alleged negligence and the resulting injury. The defendant’s attorney will outline their case to the jury as well.
Presentation of Evidence
The presentation of evidence is where the bulk of the trial unfolds. As the plaintiff, your attorney will present first. This phase involves witness testimony and exhibiting evidence.
Witness testimonies include your account, testimony from medical experts, and witnesses to the incident. Exhibiting evidence includes showing medical records, photographs of the injury, and other relevant documents.
The defense will then present their evidence, possibly trying to counter your claims and establish an alternate narrative.
In many personal injury trials, expert witnesses play a key role. They provide specialized insights into medical issues, accident reconstruction, or financial losses. Their testimony can bolster your claim by clarifying complexities for the jury.
Cross-Examination
After each witness testimony, the opposing attorney has the chance to cross-examine. This stage tests the credibility of the witnesses. Effective cross-examination can strengthen your case or raise doubts about the defendant’s arguments.
Closing Arguments
As the trial nears its end, both sides present their final arguments. This is the last opportunity for your attorney to reinforce your case and persuade the jury. It’s the culmination of all the evidence presented, aimed at solidifying your position.
Jury Deliberation and Verdict
After closing arguments, the jury deliberates. They review the evidence and apply the law as instructed by the judge to reach a verdict. This phase can last from hours to days, depending on the difficulty of the case.
Once the jury reaches a decision, they return to the courtroom to deliver the verdict. If they rule in your favor, they will also specify the settlement amount. But keep in mind, the trial’s conclusion doesn’t always mean the end of the legal journey. The losing party can appeal the decision, potentially extending the process.
Navigate Your Trial With Confidence
Going to trial in a personal injury case can be a rigorous process. But with the right legal expertise, it can lead to justice and a fair settlement. Most injury law firms don’t litigate. We do at Flanagan Law, and we win. With years of trial experience, we know how to build your case, take it to trial, select the right jury, and tell your story effectively. Schedule a free consultation now to learn how we can help.
Not ready to schedule a consultation? Discover more helpful tips and best practices for your case. Read The Complete Guide to Personal Injury Cases in Atlanta.
