Hi, I'm attorney Anna Soto with DM Injury Law, and I'm here to help you understand what happens if your personal injury case goes to trial. The vast majority of personal injury cases settle before trial. Trial is the exception, not the rule, because both sides generally prefer a certain outcome over the risk and expense of litigation. when it is necessary to try a case, trial begins with jury selection called voir dire, where both sides question potential jurors and select a fair jury panel.
This usually takes half a day to a full day. Once the jurors are selected, the opening statements begin. Each side tells the jury what the evidence will show. Your attorney explains what happened, why the defendant is at fault, and what your injuries have cost you. The defense then tells its side. After opening statements, your attorney calls witnesses. This can include you, physicians, an accident reconstruction expert, or any additional necessary expert, and others who may speak to your damages. The defense then will ask the witnesses their own questions, which is called cross-examination. The defense then presents its case. Your attorney cross-examines their witnesses. The last step of trial is the closing arguments. Each side summarizes the evidence and explains why the jury should rule in their favor. The jury then deliberates privately and returns a verdict. For most personal injury cases, a trial lasts 2 to 5 days, but the timeline can vary. DM Injury Law is different because we prepare your case for trial from day one. We are ready to get you everything you deserve. Call us at (816) 888-7500 to get your case started.