WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE PROCESS
Here is a brief overview of the steps involved during personal injury litigation in Columbia:
Filing a complaint
- One party brings civil action against another. The first party files a complaint—a statement that says why the action is being brought—and, if necessary, a summons against the other party, otherwise known as the defendant.
- The civil action officially begins when the summons is served to the defendant.
- The defendant must answer the summons. In his or her answer, the defendant can admit to some or all of the complaint, or he or she can contest some or all of the complaint. The answer also includes the defendant’s possible defenses and any claims they may have against the first party—the plaintiff—or other parties involved in the case.
The discovery process
- During the discovery process, the plaintiff and defendant share any information they have pertaining to the case. This can be done through written questions answered under oath, known formally as interrogatories, via provided documents, and by deposition.
- Attempts can be made to end cases by settlement—in which court involvement is limited—or through a motion practice. Courts play a greater role in motion practices and may add to the time needed for resolution.
Bringing a case to trial or settlement
- A case is brought to trial if settlements and/or motion practices are unsuccessful.
- During the trial, the attorneys present their clients’ cases and a judge or jury decides the outcome.
- The judge's decision can be appealed if either party desires to do so. This appeal is then taken to a higher court, although such courts rarely overturn the initial decision.
Every case is different
It is important to keep in mind that, because every case is different, your personal injury lawsuit may not exactly resemble the scenario above. That is okay. When it comes to Columbia personal injury litigation, the Lourie Law Firm is committed to a personalized approach. We treat every case uniquely in order to fight for the individual interests of a client.
Please fill out our online contact form or call us at 803-799-9805 regarding your Columbia personal injury litigation. We are committed to providing you the information and aggressive advocacy that you deserve.
