Deciding Between Settlement Agreements And Litigation

Litigation is when an individual brings a legal action forward to enforce their desire to right a wrong. If you were injured in an accident, you may be curious about what level of financial recovery could be possible if you were to pursue compensation through a Florida court. In the majority of personal injury cases, approximately 90% of them according to one report, settlement agreements are reached before trial. When a settlement is agreed upon, there is no need for a trial.

There are benefits and drawbacks to settlement agreements just as there are pros and cons to going to trial. Each case has its own details to assess. A legal expert can share with you what options are available. If you need financial recovery for injuries sustained in Clearwater, Hudson, or Tampa, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of litigation with a seasoned attorney. Often more money can be recovered in court, but the process can also be time consuming and expensive.

Settlements Are Possible Until There Is a Verdict

Even if you and your attorney decide to move forward with litigation, the door to a settlement agreement is not completely closed. Basically, a settlement agreement is formal understanding between both parties. Typically it is an agreement for one party to pay a certain amount of money and the other party to drop their legal action in return.

Often there will be a period of negotiation between the two parties. If an agreement can’t be reached, one lawyer could start the process of heading to trial, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t still offers and counteroffers being exchanged. If an agreement that is suitable for both parties can be reached before there is a court verdict, a settlement can take place.

Settlements Agreements Save Time

Because they are the faster option, many prefer settlement agreements over lawsuits. Lawsuits can be unpredictable and may take years to complete. The unpredictability with lawsuits is that you can never be sure what the court will decide. With a settlement agreement, you know exactly how much you will receive if you choose to agree.

But there are situations in which it’s in your best interests to head to court. Including if you feel your position is supported by Florida law and mediation is not a possibility because of communication issues or intimidation.

If you do choose to take your case to court, it is important you understand the amount of time and energy necessary for you to achieve the outcome you are seeking. Discuss your preferred timeline and how much financial recovery you need to move past the injury with a Florida personal injury lawyer.

Do you want to go to court but an insurance adjuster is telling you to accept a settlement? An insurance company has its own lawyers, you need a lawyer working for you. Talk to the attorneys at Roman & Roman. With over 100 years of combined experience, our knowledgeable attorneys know how to navigate complex insurance claims and win personal injury lawsuits. No-obligation appointments are available. Schedule your free consultation today.