When you’re injured due to the negligence of another person, trying to determine whether or not you should pursue compensation can be challenging. After all, you want to focus on healing, but you also deserve compensation for the injuries you suffered. Unfortunately, there is a misconception that these cases take half a decade to be finalized, so many choose to relinquish their right to settlement. If you’re considering filing a lawsuit against the negligent party responsible for the injuries you’ve sustained, it’s essential to work with a Sacramento personal injury lawyer to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Keep reading to discover how long your case can take.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Lawsuit Generally Take?

In general, you can expect a lawsuit to take anywhere from one to three years, depending on the circumstances of the case.

The first step in pursuing a personal injury case is contacting an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Once you have your representation, they will file a suit on your behalf with the court. Next, you will begin the discovery process, which can take six months to one year on average. This process allows both parties to uncover information that can influence the case.

Once the discovery process is complete, you may make an attempt to settle the case. However, if the parties cannot agree on a settlement amount, the case will proceed to trial. Litigation can last anywhere from a day to a week, depending on the complexity of the case. For example, if outside witnesses are necessary, you can find that their testimony can take longer due to the complex nature of the matters they are discussing. Once your case has been heard, the jury will issue a verdict. If you win, you will receive compensation.

What Factors Influence the Length of a Case?

Unfortunately, several factors can influence how long a personal injury lawsuit takes. Generally, the more complex your case is, the longer it will take, as there are more factors that must be considered. Additional factors like the amount of compensation you are seeking, the severity of your injuries, how many parties are involved, and whether or not there is a heavy caseload in your court will all impact how quickly this process goes.

If your case proceeds to trial, you may find additional factors can influence how long this process takes, like whether or not the defendant appeals the ruling, which could trigger a new trial.

At the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes, we understand how devastating a personal injury can be. As such, we are dedicated to helping you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Our firm will do everything possible to help you through the process of filing a lawsuit, so you can rest assured that your case is in good hands. Contact us today to learn how we will assist you.