How Long Does It Take After a Deposition To Get a Settlement?
Some personal injury cases are settled without the need for filing a lawsuit. However, sometimes it is necessary to file a lawsuit. After a plaintiff files a personal injury lawsuit, each side engages in discovery. During discovery, the plaintiff gathers information and evidence from the defense side to analyze the strength of the defendant’s case and vice versa. Depositions are part of the discovery process.
You may wonder, “How long after a deposition will it take me to get a settlement?” So, how long does it take after a deposition to get a settlement? Every case is different. Depending on the specifics of your case, it can take days, weeks, or months after a deposition to reach a settlement agreement. Sometimes, a settlement cannot be reached, and the case must proceed to trial, where a judge or jury makes the final decision. However, most personal injury lawsuits settle before trial. Research suggests that only 5% of personal injury lawsuits go all the way to trial.
What Happens During a Deposition?
As mentioned already, depositions are part of the discovery phase. A deposition is a process in which someone is questioned under oath. Your attorney questions the defendant and their witnesses, and the defense attorney questions you and your witnesses.
Some of the questions you may be asked during a deposition include;
- Personal questions
- Questions about your medical history
- Questions about the accident
- Questions about your injuries
- Questions about how the accident and your injuries have impacted your life
Your attorney can help you prepare for your deposition. They can explain the deposition process to you and help you practice answering questions. Your lawyer can ensure you feel confident and relaxed before your deposition.
It is vital to note that lying during your deposition is a criminal offense. If you are found lying during your deposition, you could be charged with perjury. If you are charged with perjury, you risk spending time in jail and facing other penalties.
After a Deposition, What Happens Next?
Once the deposition process is complete, the court reporter transcribes the session and provides copies of the transcription to you, your attorney, the defendant, and their attorney. If, after the deposition process, either side needs additional information, requests to produce, interrogatories, and requests for admissions could follow. Additional depositions could also be scheduled.
Depositions Can Encourage a Settlement
If a personal injury case goes to trial, the information gathered during the deposition process can be used at trial. Therefore, a deposition can steer your case toward a settlement. If the other side realizes you have a strong case, they may not want to risk the judge or jury awarding a significant award and may make you a reasonable settlement offer. If this happens, your lawyer will advise you on whether or not to take the offer.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you need help with your personal injury case, contact our qualified Tampa personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm. We can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Ocala, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, Naples, Melbourne, Miami, and West Palm Beach areas.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/perjury
