The Truth About How Long A Personal Injury Lawsuit Takes

At the beginning of a case, clients understandably want to know how long the process will be. Many firms give vague, scripted answers or promise that all you need to do is wait and the settlement will arrive. 

The truth is that a serious case takes serious time. If a lawyer makes promises about your case, they may be planning to settle your case for a quick fee at a big discount to the wrongdoer.

A meritorious case can take anywhere from one to three years to resolve after the lawsuit is filed, and even more if there is a verdict or an appeal. This timeline is driven both by the amount of time it takes to collect the necessary evidence and the court’s schedule. 

Before the case can be filed, a good attorney completes an initial investigation. After filing, formal investigation begins through the discovery process. Rushing these investigations leaves stones unturned and may result in an outcome that does not fairly reflect your loss. Often, figuring out the best way to pursue your case can take more than a year. And once a lawsuit is filed, we are largely at the mercy of the court’s calendar. Cases are routinely continued because of the court’s conflicts. 

By preparing for trial on day one, we take the necessary steps so that you can make the best decision for your life. This is the most efficient way to drive accountability and to force institutions to pay you the attention you deserve. If you believe you may have an injury case, please contact us for a confidential consultation.