How Long Does it Take a Lawsuit to Settle?

The time it takes to settle a lawsuit depends on many factors, like the type of case, the extent of injuries, and the amount of money involved. Complex cases or those with serious injuries usually take longer to resolve. 

If you or a loved one needs help, a personal injury attorney will guide you through the process and fight for your rights.

Personal Injury Lawsuit Overview

A personal injury lawsuit happens when someone gets hurt because of someone else’s actions. For example, if you get hurt in a car crash that wasn’t your fault, you might file a personal injury lawsuit.

These lawsuits have a few main steps:

• Filing the lawsuit. This is the first step where your lawyer officially submits your case to the court. It involves preparing and submitting legal documents that outline your claim and the damages you are seeking.
• Gathering information in discovery. During discovery, both sides collect evidence and information to build their cases. This can include obtaining medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant documents. 
• Trying to settle out of court. Before going to trial, both sides often try to reach a settlement. This involves negotiating with the other party to agree on compensation without the need for a court trial. Many cases are resolved at this stage.
• Going to trial if you can’t settle. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial. During the trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments to a judge or jury, who then make a decision on the case and determine any compensation.

Factors That Impact The Timeline Of A Personal Injury Lawsuit

Several things can make a lawsuit take more or less time:

• How complicated the case is: If it’s a relatively straightforward car crash, it might settle faster than a tricky medical malpractice case.
• How badly you’re hurt: If your injuries are really bad or take a long time to heal, the case might take longer.
• How much money is involved: Cases with a lot of money at stake often take longer.
• How busy the court is: If the court has a lot of cases, yours might have to wait in line.
• Whether the other side wants to settle: If they’re willing to settle, things can go faster. If not, it might take longer.
• How much evidence there is: Gathering and looking at evidence takes time. More evidence can mean a longer case.
• Whether you go to trial: Going to trial makes the case take much longer.

In general, a simple case might settle in a few months. A more complicated case could take a year or more. If a case goes to trial, it could take several years to finish.

Get Help With A Personal Injury Claim

If you or a loved one has been hurt, a York Law APC personal injury attorney will guide you through the process and fight for your rights. Focus on getting better while we handle the legal process. 

Remember, every case is different. Some settle quickly, while others take a long time. The most important thing is to get the help you need and the fair treatment you deserve. Call us at 619-233-1033 or contact us online for a free consultation and case review.

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Steven Ray York who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.