The Pros and Cons of Settling Your Personal Injury Case Outside of Court

If you have been injured in an accident, you may be wondering whether to settle your personal injury case outside of court. While a settlement can be a quicker and less expensive option, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of settling your case outside of court.

Pros of Settling Your Personal Injury Case Outside of Court

1. Quicker Resolution

Settling your personal injury case outside of court can be a quicker option. Court cases can take months or even years to resolve, while settling your case can take as little as a few weeks or months.

2. Less Expensive

Settling your case outside of court can be less expensive than going to trial. The cost of a trial can add up quickly, including attorney’s fees, expert witness fees, court fees, and other expenses. Settling your case can save you money on these expenses.

3. More Control

When you settle your case outside of court, you have more control over the outcome. You can negotiate with the other party to come up with a settlement that is acceptable to both parties.

Cons of Settling Your Personal Injury Case Outside of Court

1. Lower Settlement Amount

The settlement amount may be lower than what you could receive if you went to trial. Insurance companies often offer lower settlement amounts to avoid going to court.

2. No Guarantee of Settlement

There is no guarantee that you will be able to settle your case outside of court. The other party may refuse to settle or may offer an amount that is too low.

3. Less Publicity

Going to trial can bring more publicity to your case, which can help raise awareness of the issues involved. Settling your case outside of court can mean less publicity for your case.

4. Limited Discovery

Settling your case outside of court means that you may have limited discovery. This means that you may not be able to obtain as much information about the other party’s actions or motivations.

Settling your personal injury case outside of court can be a viable option for resolving your case. It can be quicker, less expensive, and give you more control over the outcome. However, it’s important to understand the potential downsides, such as a lower settlement amount and limited discovery. Consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you determine the best course of action for your case. 

A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. Click here to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled California lawyers to learn more about your options. Or call our offices at 707 549 8166.