Personal Injury Lawsuits Milwaukee, WI

Personal Injury Lawsuits Milwaukee, WI

If you are wanting to understand the difference between a personal injury claim and personal injury lawsuits Milwaukee, WI lawyer, Hickey & Turim, S.C. is here to explain it so you can make the right decisions for your situation. 

When you have been injured by another person’s negligence or wrongdoing, compensation may be available. This is most often assessed with the help of a lawyer and through negotiating a settlement. However, sometimes, a settlement cannot be reached. In this case, personal injury lawsuits in Milwaukee, WI may proceed. 

The Steps of a Lawsuit

The vast majority of people have never been involved in a lawsuit. Because of this, most victims of an accident, as well as their family members feel confused and anxious about pursuing a claim, let alone a lawsuit. It is true that a lawsuit could be presented before a jury; however, this is actually very rare. Furthermore, with the help of a Milwaukee personal injury lawyer, the likelihood of your case going this far is not great. To ease your mind, consider the stages of personal injury lawsuits in Milwaukee, WI. 

Meet With a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were injured by another person’s wrongdoing, the first step will be to get medical attention. After you should call a lawyer to explore your options about filing a Milwaukee, WI personal injury lawsuit. Your lawyer will set up a consultation with you, and you will be asked to bring any supporting documentation. 

Retaining a Lawyer

The majority of personal injury lawyers are paid on contingency. This means they only get paid if they win your case. Their fees are based on a percentage of the total recovery, and is typically between 25 and 50 percent of the case. You will be asked to review and sign a client contract that lays out their exact fees. In general, if your case evolves into a lawsuit, the lawyer will charge more. Personal injury lawsuits in Milwaukee, WI are more expensive to build; however, the compensation can be greater than a settlement through negotiations. 

Investigate Your Case

Your lawyer will investigate the details of your case so he or she understands the extent of your injuries, the damages, the recommended course of treatment, and all related expenses. Once the full extent of damages has been established, your lawyer will talk with the defendant or insurance company to negotiate a settlement. Throughout the process your lawyer will keep you up to date with the process, and any significant developments. 

Settling Your Case Prior to Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

The majority of claims, particularly those involving vehicular accidents, will be settled before a lawsuit is filed. In this case, a settlement is reached in negotiations, and your lawyer will let you know that an offer has been made. He or she will also help you to understand whether or not you should accept it. The decision is completely up to you. 

Filing a Lawsuit

When a claim cannot be settled, a lawsuit will be filed. A judge will then send a deadline for all phases of the process. This process can take anywhere from several months to years, and will involve:

• The complaint and answer phase
• The discovery phase
• The motions phase

Mediation may take place at some point. And in these sessions, a mediator will attempt to help both parties reach a settlement (again). If this is still not possible, a trial date will be set. 

When it comes to personal injury lawsuits in Milwaukee, WI, you should know the process is complex and requires expert decision-making skills on the part of a lawyer. Having the right law firm on your side can make a difference. Call Hickey & Turim, S.C. today.