What Happens if Your Personal Injury Claim Goes to Court?

If you have filed a personal injury claim in Oklahoma then you have to be prepared for anything. It is true that most claims, the majority, actually, will come to an agreeable settlement without going to court. However, there are times when this does not happen and court is the inevitable outcome. 

It is important that when you take legal action against another party you are successful in obtaining the compensation you need for the financial losses you incurred. You may obtain compensation through a settlement or by going to court and succeeding with being awarded your damages. To help you throughout the entirety of your case and no matter where it goes, you are welcome to connect with an experienced Oklahoma City personal injury attorney at the Putnam Law Office.

What to Expect When a Personal Injury Claim Goes to Court

When you first file a claim, there are several steps that happen during the claims process including negotiations and potentially alternative dispute resolution avenues like arbitration or mediation. However, when there is nothing that is working to further an agreeable resolution, a claim may have to be dealt with in court. At this phase, a claim will transition into a lawsuit.

Litigation can last much longer than the claims process, be much more involved and burdensome, and be costly. However, there are situations where lawsuits are necessary to help individuals get to their desired outcome. 

Many personal injury lawsuits will be seen by a judge and jury. As a result, there will be jury selection. When a jury is picked a trial can start. 

During a trial opening statements by the plaintiff and the defendant will be made. A plaintiff must demonstrate the burden of proof by presenting evidence to support their case. Pictures, videos, witnesses, and other forms of evidence can be used. 

After the plaintiff presents their evidence, the defendant gets an opportunity to respond and present their own evidence supporting their position.

When both sides have had their time putting forth evidence, both sides get the chance to cross-examine witnesses.

Then, both sides can speak to the judge and jury during closing arguments.

A jury will take everything that they were presented and go into a separate location to deliberate and come to a decision. When it comes to deliberation in personal injury cases, it is usually not a drawn-out and long process. Decisions are typically made fairly quickly but, in complicated cases, it could take a while. 

Once a verdict is reached it will be presented to both parties in the suit.

If either side believes there were errors or other issues that led to an unfavorable outcome, it could be possible to appeal a jury opinion.

Speak to an Attorney at the Putnam Law Office Today

When you or a loved one is injured you need the best, most effective, and experienced legal representation. Do not delay, call the Putnam Law Office at 405-724-7701 and schedule a free, initial consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney.