Should I Hire an Attorney to Represent Me in a Personal Injury Case?

Lori Asks: Should I Hire an Attorney to Represent Me in a Personal Injury Case?

Television shows about attorneys tend to focus on the criminal rather than the civil side of the law. Although it would take a lot of time to find out which side of the court handles more cases on an annual basis, it is safe to say that the numbers for each provide a backlog in most systems. Attorneys are vital parts of the civil court system because of their understanding of civil law and the type of courts within their area of expertise.

Personal injury cases are legal disputes that arise when someone suffers injury and believes someone else is possibly legally responsible for any harm done. This type of damage is increasing with cases of elder abuse occurring in private and nursing homes, whether by family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Civil court allows the injured party to file suit against the alleged responsible party or parties in the hope of getting an order of judgment in their favor.

Much of the time disputes are handled with an informal settlement prior to filing a lawsuit. The parties include involved people and businesses, their attorneys, and representatives from the respective insurance companies. Negotiations typically lead to a settlement acceptable to all sides, which is put into an agreement acknowledged by all parties. Financial compensation to the injured party and an agreement by the injured party to cease action stops the matter.

If the injured party decides to file a formal lawsuit, he or she files a civil complaint in the appropriate court and is identified as the plaintiff. There can be more than one plaintiff named in a complaint. There can also be more than one defendant (the party or parties named as responsible for the damage). Although some civil suits are presented and argued by the plaintiff and defendant, the majority of cases heard in higher courts require representation by an attorney.

Consulting with a reputable attorney or firm with a proven record in personal injury cases like the folks at www.ryderlaw.com lets a person know the status of their grievance and compliance with the statute of limitations, which is the length of time given to file suit. It also gives the attorney the opportunity to decide whether to take the case, and if so, to notify all parties in a timely manner. Steps to be taken prior to filing suit will be successfully done with the right legal counsel.