We know that when it comes to personal injury lawsuits or any lawsuits for that matter, unless you are a lawyer or other professional within the court system, the process can feel overwhelming.
When you watch courtroom dramas or court scenes in movies, legal terminology can be used nonchalantly and sometimes made to be understood. In reality, many legal terms can be overwhelming and downright confusing.
At The Richards Firm, we understand that the legal world is unfamiliar to most of the clients we represent and acknowledge that through the ways we communicate with each and every one of our clients. Through patience, education, and explanation, we make sure you understand and feel comfortable every step of the way as we represent you or a loved one.
When we use legal terminology, we use it because it is sometimes necessary. We do our best to explain that language to non-lawyers.
Let’s take a look at some of the terms we may use as we guide you through a personal injury lawsuit. In no way do we expect you to study and know these terms but simply hope a little overview helps you feel comfortable along the way.
Negligence: Simply put, negligence refers to a person or entity’s failure to meet a standard of care established for the protection of others.
Statute of Limitations: This is the amount of time by which plaintiff has to file a lawsuit following a personal injury incident or accident. Think of a statute of limitations as a deadline by which you must either settle your claim or file it into court.
Litigation: This is the formal term used when taking action to file a lawsuit or pursue any legal action. When you file suit, you have begun the litigation process.
Plaintiff: This is the individual who is filing a lawsuit in a personal injury case. In personal injury, this would be the person who was injured or the family of someone filing for wrongful death
Defendant: This is the party which the plaintiff has filed a lawsuit against who the plaintiff believes is at fault for their injury or a wrongful death.
Personal Injury Claim: A civil action relating to the physical or mental harm suffered by someone due to negligence on the defendant’s part.
Compensation: Injured or deceased individuals are entitled to a recovery to make up for the injuries and damages. In personal injury, compensation generally comes in the form of money.
Damages: In a personal injury case, damages include your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and so many other components related to your loss.
Expert Witness: A person who can testify in a trial based on their expert education, experience, or knowledge in a certain field.
Settlement: An agreement between both parties in a lawsuit.
Adjudicate: To make a formal judgment or decision about an issue or disputed matter.
Verdict: The decision made by the judge or jury in a case.
As personal injury Lawyers in the area of Cincinnati , our team at the Richards firm is committed to serving those who have been injured by the actions or inactions of others. Whether you have been in a motor vehicle accident as a pedestrian, bicyclist, motorcyclist, or the operator of a personal or commercial vehicle, the victim of nursing home neglect, bitten by a dog, or injured by a faulty product, we will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
We hope our explanation of these terms helps you feel more comfortable with the legal process, but know that we will guide you every step of the way when it comes to personal injury claim and lawsuit. Contact us today.