We will try to settle your claim without having to involve the court but, in many cases, early settlement is not possible. If your claim cannot be settled, either because the opposing party will not come to the negotiating table, or they will not accept they are liable for your injuries, or simply that the time limits in your claim are due to expire, your claim will be 'issued' at court.
Once the court becomes involved they have specific case management powers. This means the court will encourage the parties to drive the claim forward and, ultimately, to a final hearing.
Our team will take you through this process step by step.
Payments on account of the claim are available in certain circumstances and insurers will often engage rehabilitation facilities at an early stage.
This is something most people want to know, particularly as they may have heard horror stories about cases being very lengthy. These days it is common for a case to be concluded much more quickly.
A lot is dependent on the extent of your injuries, duration of any disability, uncertain prognosis and the conduct of the other party. Many cases tend to settle within 18 months to 2 years of being started at court.
Most cases settle before trial and very few (perhaps less than 1%) end up before a judge.
If your case concludes at trial you will be expected to give evidence.
As part of the court's powers to encourage early and amicable settlement of claims without the need to attend trial, they have set up mediation centres. These are often rooms at the court where each party (you and your opponent) and a legal representative attempt to resolve any issues in the claim via a court appointed mediator.
Our team are experts in mediation and can advise you further at our initial meeting.
Email our personal injury team.
Exeter Office: Broadwalk House. Southernhay West, Exeter, Devon EX1 1UATel: 01392 207020, Fax: 01392 207018, Email: enquiries@tozers.co.uk