When It Comes to My Legal Disputes, Should I Go to Trial Or Settle?

When you are involved in a legal dispute, there are a few ways to resolve it. Understanding each option can help you assess the best path for you and your case.

You can resolve disputes in two ways: you can go to trial or settle out of court. Both options have pros and cons, and usually, the choice you make is a personal one.

We have summarized the basics of trial and settlement options along with listing some pros and cons for each option below.

Going to Trial

Going to trial is the outcome most people think of when they consider legal action. It involves both sides of the dispute presenting their case to a judge and/or jury in the hopes of winning their case.

A trial is a more costly and time-consuming option for settling legal disputes. It also comes with a certain amount of risk.

The Pros and Cons of Going To Trial

Going to trial may be unavoidable after the breakdown of settlement negotiations, but you may also opt for it without considering a settlement. The pros of choosing the trial route include:

● Insurance companies are held publicly accountable
● The plaintiff gets a sense of satisfaction from presenting their case
● There is a chance of maximum compensation for the plaintiff

The cons of going to trial include:

● An uncertain verdict
● It is a longer and more stressful process than a settlement
● It is the more costly option

Settling Your Case

The goal of settling a claim is to reach a fair settlement based on the evidence presented. Your personal injury lawyer negotiates this settlement to get you the compensation you deserve.

The settlement route is usually resolved much faster and cheaper than a trial. It is generally the better option if you want some degree of certainty on the outcome of your dispute.

If the settlement process breaks down, there is the option to bring in a mediator to help settle the dispute. Settlement processes that do not reach a resolution may go to trial. However, most settlements end with both sides feeling satisfied with the outcome.

The Pros and Cons of Settling Your Case

Settlements tend to have more pros than the trial route. The pros of a settlement include:

● It is the cheaper option
● It saves time
● It is a less stressful process
● It is confidential

The cons of a settlement include:

● Insurance companies may present low-ball offers during a negotiation, though you can negotiate a more significant settlement through the process
● If the settlement negotiations break down, you may end up going to trial anyway

Looking for Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers in The Etobicoke Area? Call Ristich Law!

If you are looking for a personal injury lawyer, Etobicoke-based Ristich Law can help you. We have experience with going to trial along with dealing with settlement negotiations, so whichever route you choose, we are here to help. Get in touch with our team of experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyers today.