Personal injury lawsuits are often complicated and difficult to prepare for. Many Floridians lack experience in litigation and a trial may make you nervous. Knowing how to prepare goes a long way toward helping you build confidence and receive the most compensation possible.
Taking these steps puts you in a better position for handling your case with the help of your personal injury lawyer.
1. Ask your lawyer what to expect
The first step to building confidence is learning about the process. As you begin, ask your personal injury lawyer to give you a brief overview based on how similar cases have played out.
Your attorney can help gather evidence to back up your claim and explain how to put it together. A good lawyer will also create a roadmap of key meetings and court dates. This will give you time to prepare accordingly.
2. Work with your doctor
Implementing and following your treatment plan is crucial to recovery. Information you receive from your doctor appointments can also help build your case. Let your lawyer know about your treatment plan, as well as any new diagnoses you receive.
It’s also important to follow your treatment plan as closely as possible—otherwise, the defendant could get your case dismissed because you didn’t obey the doctor’s orders.
3. Keep a record of everything
Be as thorough and accurate as possible. Gathering evidence can start the moment the injury occurred. This will help strengthen your case and prove negligence.
Photographs of the scene, contact information from any witnesses and medical records are all important pieces of evidence.
4. Realize that your privacy may be invaded
Losing your sense of privacy isn’t easy and it’s often one of the biggest challenges people face with a lawsuit. The other party’s defense team has the right to request certain details about your past. This may include things like your previous year’s tax returns, medical history and employment experiences.
Insurance companies may also hire an investigator for large injury claims. They might take videos or photographs of you in public spaces. What you post on social media could also call into question the impact your injury has on your lifestyle.
The moral of the story:
Be cautious about what you do in public or post on social media.
5. Present yourself in the best light
Preparation is one of the best ways to appear confident. Consult with your lawyer about the court proceedings, paperwork and anything that could affect your case.
On the day of your trial, make sure to wear appropriate attire. Show up early and be polite to everyone as this helps establish good character and genuineness. Once the trial begins, remain calm as you answer questions.
Defense attorneys will sometimes get confrontational in order to get a negative reaction out of you. However, getting angry will only make things worse. Keep your voice calm and use positive body language. This helps you to project confidence and gain respect from the judge or jury.
6. Understand that your lawyer is your greatest advocate
Leaning on your lawyer for support and legal guidance will go a long way toward success. They have many years of experience and knowledge that can help overcome many challenges. Communicate with them on a regular basis about any problems that may arise and celebrate the small victories.
The best way to win a personal injury case is to prepare. As new obstacles arise, remember to keep calm and lean on your lawyer.
Read our comprehensive guide to filing a personal injury lawsuit.
About George Lorenzo
George Lorenzo is the founder of Lorenzo & Lorenzo, a top-rated and well-respected law firm in Tampa, FL that specializes in personal injury, auto accidents, premises liability and wrongful death. We understand the many ways in which a serious accident can affect your quality of life – financially, physically and emotionally. When facing legal action in court, the process can quickly become overwhelming, regardless of which side of the table you are on. Visit our website today.