What to Expect in a Personal Injury Case

After a serious accident, your personal injury attorney will meet with you to learn about your case, discuss the circumstances of the accident and how your injuries have affected your life. At LaMarche Safranko Law, our personal injury team will investigate the causes of your accident, gather evidence, and determine who is responsible for your injuries. Once the negligent parties are identified, we will file a personal injury claim on your behalf to pursue fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Once a lawsuit is filed, both sides enter a phase known as discovery. This is the period before trial when lawyers exchange important information and evidence about the case. Discovery includes documents such as medical records, accident or incident reports, photographs, witness statements, and insurance information. A document called a Bill of Particulars outlines how the accident occurred and details the extent of your injuries and damages.

After written discovery is complete, the next stage of the case involves depositions. During a deposition, the parties and witnesses provide sworn testimony, usually at one of the attorneys’ offices. A stenographer records everything said and later provides a written transcript. Sometimes depositions are also videotaped. Although a judge is not present, all attorneys and their clients can attend. Before your deposition, your lawyer will meet with you to help you prepare and feel comfortable answering questions. Taking this preparation seriously is essential, as depositions are a critical part of building your case and protecting your rights.

If your case cannot be resolved through negotiation or settlement, our experienced trial attorneys will be ready to present your case in court. We will advocate for you before a judge or jury to obtain the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

What does discovery mean in a personal injury case?

If your personal injury lawyer initiates a lawsuit on your behalf, before a trial, a “discovery” period occurs during which lawyers from each side exchange documentary evidence regarding the case. This includes medical records, incident/accident reports, photographs, witness information and insurance information. A document known as a “Bill of Particulars” provides details about how the case happened and describes the extent of your harm and injuries.

What are depositions in a personal injury case?

After discovery is exchanged, all parties to the case and any relevant witnesses, may be required to give testimony under oath. Depositions are usually done at one of the lawyers’ offices, before a stenographer who makes a record of everything that is said and provides a written transcript in Question and Answer form. Sometimes these depositions are recorded by video as well. There is no judge at a deposition and all lawyers can be present with their clients. Your lawyer will meet with you before your testimony so you can feel well prepared before testifying. While it may seem easy to simply answer questions, it’s important to take preparation with your attorney seriously as there may be many types of questions lawyers are trained to ask that you are not used to answering.