If you’ve suffered a personal injury due to the negligence of another party in St. Louis, Missouri, you might be considering filing a lawsuit. Before taking this step, it’s essential to understand the process and what steps need to be taken.
The first step in filing a personal injury lawsuit is understanding if you have a valid case. Personal injuries can arise from various situations like car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice or even product defects. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional misconduct, then there are grounds for a lawsuit.
Once you’ve established that there is indeed cause for legal action, the next crucial step is to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Legal procedures can be complex and challenging for those unfamiliar with them; hence hiring an attorney who specializes in personal injury cases will provide invaluable guidance throughout the process.
Your attorney will help gather all necessary evidence required for your case. This includes medical records related to your injuries, photographs of the car accident lawyer near me scene (if applicable), eyewitness testimonies and any other relevant documentation that supports your claim.
Filing the actual lawsuit involves drafting a complaint which outlines details about your case such as how the accident occurred, what injuries were sustained and why you believe the defendant should be held liable. Your attorney will file this document at court on your behalf.
After filing the complaint comes discovery – both sides exchange information pertaining to their respective cases during this phase. The defendant may ask questions about your injuries while you may request information regarding their actions leading up to and during the incident causing harm.
Mediation follows after discovery wherein both parties attempt resolving their dispute without going into trial under supervision of a neutral third-party mediator. If mediation fails then preparations begin for trial where each side presents its case before judge or jury who make final decision based on presented evidence.
While awaiting verdict post-trial could take some time depending on complexity of issues involved; once verdict has been reached it’s either party’s prerogative to appeal if they disagree with the decision.
It’s important to note that filing a personal injury lawsuit in St. Louis must be done within Missouri’s statute of limitations for such cases, which is typically five years from the date of injury. If you fail to file within this time frame, you may lose your right to pursue compensation through litigation.
Filing a personal injury lawsuit can be an overwhelming process but understanding these key steps and securing legal representation can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries. Remember, every case is unique and it’s crucial to seek professional advice tailored specifically towards your situation.
Goldblatt + Singer, P.C.
8182 Maryland Ave UNIT 801, St. Louis, MO 63105
314-231-4100