Many people who’ve been injured wonder the same thing: How long will my case take—and will it go to trial?
Here’s a look at what typically happens in a personal injury lawsuit from start to finish.
Step 1: Consultation and Case Review
Your attorney reviews what happened, your injuries, and the evidence available. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing unless your case succeeds.
Step 2: Investigation and Pre-Filing Work
Your legal team gathers medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions. A demand letter may be sent to the insurance company to try for an early settlement.
Step 3: Filing the Lawsuit
If no settlement is reached, your attorney files a formal complaint in court. The defendant then has a set time to respond.
Step 4: Discovery
Both sides exchange evidence through written questions, document requests, and depositions.
This stage often takes several months—and it’s where cases are built or broken.
Step 5: Pre-Trial and Mediation
Before trial, the court may require mediation—a structured negotiation to see if the case can be resolved without going to court. Many cases settle here.
Step 6: Trial
If no settlement is reached, the case goes before a judge or jury. Both sides present evidence, witnesses, and arguments before a verdict is reached.
Step 7: Appeal (If Necessary)
If one side believes a legal error occurred, they may appeal to a higher court. This can extend the process further.
How Long Does It Take?
- Simple cases: 6–12 months
- Moderate cases: 1–2 years
- Complex or catastrophic injuries: 2+ years
While this timeline can feel long, many cases resolve before trial.
Patience pays off—especially with the right advocate on your side.
If you’ve been injured, contact Persinger Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through every stage of the process and fight for the outcome you deserve.
