“I was just in a car accident in California—what happens after I hire a personal injury lawyer?”
Nobody expects to get into an accident or suffer injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Here’s what to expect after hiring a personal injury lawyer and how the process typically unfolds.
Common questions may include:
- What does a personal injury lawyer actually do?
- How long does a car accident case take in California?
- Will I have to go to court?
While every case is unique, the information below will give you a general understanding of the legal process and what to expect when working with a personal injury law firm.
What Happens After Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Car accident cases and personal injury lawsuits are complex and take time to resolve. Once hired, your lawyer will begin by investigating your case. This may include:
- Gathering evidence
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting with experts
Key Info Your Lawyer Needs to Build Your Injury Case
Attorneys will negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company, and if needed, with their legal counsel after a lawsuit is filed.
Two major factors affect your case value: liability and damages.
- Liability refers to who is at fault.
- Damages cover financial compensation for your injuries.
Damages are categorized as:
- Special damages – medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses
- General damages – pain, suffering, and emotional distress
Important elements to help your case:
- The Incident: Share facts and documentation, including a police report if available.
- Your Injuries: Describe which body parts were hurt and the level of pain.
- Medical Records & Bills: Your lawyer will request these from your providers.
- Life Impact: Detail how the injury has affected your daily life and mental health.
- Evidence: Provide any photos, witness names, or property damage reports.
Some Do’s & Don’t
Do:
- Attend all medical appointments and follow your doctor’s advice
- Save and share all related documents with your attorney
- Be honest about your injuries and what happened
Don’t:
- Exaggerate or lie—this can harm your case
- Post on social media about your injuries or accident
- Discuss your case with people outside your legal team
Legal Process After Hiring Your Lawyer Needs to Build Your Injury Case
- Pre-Litigation:
Attorneys gather accident reports, hospital records, and other documents. They may attempt to resolve the case before filing a lawsuit. - Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR):
Mediation is a common method where both parties meet with a neutral third party to negotiate. If successful, both sides sign a settlement agreement. - Litigation:
If no settlement is reached, your attorney will file a Complaint in court. This formally begins your lawsuit. - Discovery Phase:
Both sides exchange information and conduct depositions. The defense may require a medical examination by their own doctor. - Trial:
If your case is not resolved, it proceeds to trial. In California, it may take several years before your trial date. Your lawyer will prepare extensively, which may include hiring expert witnesses.
Our team of experienced California personal injury lawyers will fight for the best outcome in your case. We know the emotional, physical, and financial toll an accident can take. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on healing.
Learn More:
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Christopher B. Dolan is the owner of the Dolan Law Firm. Allison Stone is a Managing Senior Trial Attorney in our Downtown Los Angeles office. We serve clients from the San Francisco Bay Area and California from our San Francisco, Oakland, Redondo Beach and Los Angeles offices. Email questions and topics for future articles to help@dolanlawfirm.com. Each situation is different, and this column does not constitute legal advice. We recommend consulting with an experienced trial attorney to understand your rights fully.
