From start to finish, car wreck litigation usually takes 15 to 18 months. The first four to six months involve pleadings, information exchanges between the parties, discovery questions exchanged on both sides, and the responses. Once the parties have that information, they have a better idea of what is going on in a case. Next, depositions take place, experts are disclosed, and settlement conferences occur frequently. Ultimately, there is a trial. For more information about Glastonbury car accident trials, call today. Let an experienced car wreck attorney help you understand the process.
What is the Duration of a Car Collision Trial?
The most significant factor that can influence the length of a case is the ongoing treatment of the plaintiff. When the injured party is still receiving treatment, it may take more time to know the extent of their injuries, and it can take longer to obtain medical records. If surgery is required, the recovery could take longer. When a car crash victim completes treatment and knows the extent of their injuries, the attorney can proceed with the case.
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Trial Process of an Automobile Crash Case in Glastonbury
The trial process begins with jury selection. Each side in jury selection has four strikes or opportunities to remove potential jurors for any reason. Other jurors can be removed for cause. The jury decides the case, so it is important to have jurors who are not biased or unfair.
After the jury is selected, motions in limine are made to request that certain evidence not be introduced in the trial. A motion in limine is heard outside the presence of the jury, and a judge decides the motion.
Opening Statements
In a trial, the plaintiff’s lawyer and the defense attorney each make an opening statement. The plaintiff’s lawyer usually goes first in Connecticut, because they have the burden of proving the allegations in the case. The plaintiff explains the case to the jury and why the parties are there. The opening statements from both parties lay out both sides of the case and identify what each party will prove or refute.
Explaining Damages
In a Glastonbury car accident trial, litigators may focus on explaining the damages the car wreck victim suffered and how the accident caused those damages. The lawyer identifies the impact those damages have on the injured individual. The attorney emphasizes the culpability of the defendant, the cause of the accident, how it might have been prevented, and the choices the defendant made.
The purpose of a jury is to reach an impartial verdict. A lawyer could point out different facts in the case or make arguments to explain the jury’s responsibility and guide the jury in making a verdict.
Closing Statements
The lawyer for the plaintiff goes first when presenting their closing argument. They review the evidence that was presented, identify the damages suffered by the injured party, and point out why the jury should award the amount of money they seek.
After the plaintiff’s lawyer gives their closing statement, the defense lawyer has an opportunity to present their closing statement. The plaintiff’s lawyer may reserve five minutes for a rebuttal to refute anything the defense lawyer raised in their argument.
What Are Bench Trials for Car Wrecks?
A Glastonbury car accident will only go to a jury trial if the plaintiff or the defendant files a jury claim form at the appropriate time. When a jury claim form is not filed, there is a trial in front of a judge, known as a bench trial.
A bench trial is faster because there is no jury selection. Often, there are no opening statements in bench trials. The attorneys simply make arguments to the judge and may present them differently than they would to a jury.
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Contact a Lawyer About Glastonbury Car Accident Trials
Most Glastonbury car accident cases do not go to trial as only about two to three percent wind up before a jury. To negotiate an excellent pre-trial settlement, however, the litigator has to be prepared to take a verdict. An experienced litigator is continuously preparing for trial, and in doing so may cause their case to settle. The only way to earn a settlement is to demonstrate strength. For more information about the litigation process and Glastonbury car accident trials, consult with a dedicated lawyer today.
