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Verdict vs. Settlement: What’s the Difference?

Jun 17, 2022 - Personal Injury by

You’ve heard both terms thrown around: verdict and settlement. But what do they mean, and which is better? When you file a personal injury lawsuit, it is important that you understand the difference between these words and the pros and cons of each one. Our Tuscaloosa personal injury lawyer explains the difference between a verdict and a settlement, and how to know which is the best option for your case.

Verdicts in Personal Injury Cases

In movies involving lawsuits, there is much back and forth between the parties, and then there is always a dramatic moment when the jury announces who won and how much money they’re entitled to. This is known as a verdict — a decision reached in court at the conclusion of a trial. In real life, it comes at the end of a trial where the plaintiff (the injured party) has the burden of proof. Most personal injury cases, in fact, do not go through this process and do not end in a verdict. Most personal injury cases settle. 

Settlements in Personal Injury Cases

Settlements are usually a product of extensive negotiations. Both sides and their attorneys come to the table and discuss the facts of the case, the damages, and fault. The goal is to reach an agreement that all parties can accept. When that happens, the parties sign a settlement agreement in which the plaintiff agrees not to take any further legal action against the defendant in exchange for a certain amount of monetary compensation. 

There are certain advantages to a settlement that appeal to many plaintiffs. 

  • Settlements mean a quicker end to the matter without having to go through the stress of a trial 
  • Settlements are certain while a jury trial is not
  • Settlements are private, while the verdict reached in a jury trial may be made public
  • Unlike a jury trial, settlements allow you to retain some level of control

How To Know Whether You Should Settle Or Go To Trial

Unfortunately, there is no fool-proof way of knowing whether or not it is best to receive a verdict at trial or reach a settlement through negotiation. This is why it is imperative to work with a Tuscaloosa personal injury lawyer who has experience in these matters and can guide you in your decision. At Cross & Smith, LLC, our attorneys have been in the business long enough to know when a settlement is your best option, and when it isn’t, they are ready to fight on your behalf in a courtroom. 

Consult With A Tuscaloosa Personal Injury Lawyer at Cross & Smith Today

A Tuscaloosa personal injury lawyer at Cross & Smith, LLC, is here to help you with your personal injury case, and when the time comes to decide whether it is best to settle or receive a verdict, we will guide you through the process. No need to go it alone — we are here to help you from start to finish. We can be reached by calling 877-791-0618 or online via our contact page.

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