Maison Law helps guide people through the legal process when they’re injured in an accident. As your personal injury case gets closer to ending, it doesn’t always mean you’ll go to trial. After discovery but before a trial, there’s a chance to resolve your case through a meeting called mediation. This could be the point where your case settles–sometimes even the same day. Regardless of what happens, our team will be with you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Do I Want My Case to Go to Mediation?
Filing a lawsuit after you’ve been injured is usually the best way to make sure you get a fair result. An insurance claim is quicker, but since it’s totally controlled by the insurance company and happens outside of court, the insurance company gets to decide how it plays out. A lawsuit is much more fair because it’s impartial. That said, before it reaches a trial, you’ll probably have to go through a mediation. And while it can be a bit intimidating, there’s actually a lot of positives with mediation:
- Faster resolution – Mediation can help settle your case quicker than going to trial. If you’re looking for a faster outcome, mediation might be the right choice.
- More control over what happens – Unlike a trial, where a judge or jury decides the outcome, mediation lets you and the other side work together to find a solution. This gives you more control over the final settlement.
- Lower costs – Trials can be expensive, and mediation is generally more affordable. Settling through mediation can save you both time and money.
- Less stress – Mediation is less formal than a trial, and there’s usually a lot less pressure. It’s a chance to settle your case without the stress and uncertainty of going to court.
Even with these positives, mediation may not always lead to a settlement, especially if the other side isn’t willing to negotiate fairly. We’ll work with you to figure out whether mediation is the right option for your case and guide you through the process.
How Does a Mediation Work?
Given all the positives with mediation, you might think it’s your best option when you reach that point in your personal injury lawsuit. But every case is different. Still, the actual mediation process is fairly static from case to case. Here’s how it generally works:
- The mediator – The mediator is a neutral professional who helps both sides communicate and work toward an agreement. They don’t make decisions but guide the conversation to help find common ground.
- The mediation – You and the other side, along with your lawyers, meet in a private setting. Each side shares their side of the story and evidence, such as medical records and accident reports.
- Private discussions – The mediator may have private meetings with each side. These meetings help discuss possible solutions and ways to compromise without the other side hearing.
- Negotiation – The goal of mediation is to find a fair settlement. The mediator helps both sides make compromises and work toward an agreement.
- Settlement – If both sides agree to a settlement, the mediator helps finalize the details, and your case is resolved. If no agreement is reached, the case may go to trial for a judge or jury to decide.
Again, mediation is a good way to settle your case without the stress and cost of a trial. It’s a more relaxed and flexible approach, and with your lawyer’s help, you’ll be prepared to get the best outcome. That said, even if it doesn’t end in a settlement that day, it gives you a better idea of how the other side views your case.
Contact Maison Law for Legal Support in California
At Maison Law, we prepare for your mediation just like we do for court hearings or depositions, always putting your needs first. Mediation is usually the best chance to settle your case fairly, and we’ll make sure you have that opportunity when the time is right.
Still, it’s never easy. Every case and even every mediation plays out differently. That said, you can rely on our team for the support and guidance you need. We have the experience and resources to help you achieve the best possible outcome to your injury case. Contact us today for a free consultation.
