When pursuing justice after an injury, choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference. While many attorneys label themselves as “litigators,” not all litigators are prepared to take a case to trial. This distinction is critical, especially in large-scale incidents where the stakes are high and defendants often have vast resources to pressure plaintiffs into settling.
So, what’s the difference? Let’s talk about it.
Understanding Litigators vs. Trial Attorneys
Generally speaking, litigators are attorneys who handle civil lawsuits. They draft pleadings, engage in discovery, and negotiate settlements. While they are certainly an essential part of the legal process, their work often concludes before a case reaches the courtroom. Even if they’re great at navigating the early stages of a lawsuit, many of them lack the experience or inclination to go to trial.
In fact, did you know that only around 1% of civil cases ever reach the trial stage? This statistic underscores the importance of selecting an attorney who is not only skilled in negotiation but also prepared to advocate effectively in court when necessary.
Trial attorneys – like those at Harrison Davis Morrison Jones – are true courtroom advocates. We not only prepare a case for trial but also have the skill, confidence, and experience to argue it before a judge and jury. What sets us apart is our readiness to push forward when negotiations fail or when a settlement offer does not adequately reflect the harm suffered by our client. We are unafraid to face off against powerful defendants and use our ability to connect with jurors to fight for maximum compensation.
Why Trial Readiness Matters
In many of our cases, our clients are up against well-funded corporate defendants who are eager to minimize payouts. These companies often employ aggressive defense strategies, including drawing out legal proceedings or presenting lowball settlement offers in the hope that plaintiffs will settle to avoid prolonged litigation.
Having a trial attorney by your side sends a clear message: you are not willing to settle for less than you deserve. Defendants are far more likely to take your claim seriously when they know your lawyer is ready and able to go to trial. In fact, the mere presence of a skilled trial attorney can lead to better settlement offers because the threat of a courtroom showdown increases the stakes for the defense.
Maximizing Your Recovery
Our trial attorneys understand the subtleties of presenting evidence, crafting compelling arguments, and persuading juries. This expertise can be pivotal in accident cases, where damages can include not only medical expenses and lost wages but also significant awards for pain and suffering or punitive damages. A lawyer who is willing to go to trial will focus on the full scope of your losses, ensuring that any compensation reflects the true impact of your injuries.
Choose Wisely
So, when you’re interviewing attorneys to represent you in an accident case, ask about their trial experience. How many cases have they taken to trial? What were the outcomes? These questions will provide valuable insight into their ability to fight for justice on your behalf. Remember, your case is about more than just settling – it’s about holding wrongdoers accountable and achieving the best possible result for you and your family.