There are many different things that can come up in a wrongful death lawsuit. One of these is that it might be possible to resolve the case through a settlement that happens before the case goes to a civil jury trial. In these cases, you might be able to get the compensation that your loved one’s death deserves without having as much of a delay or having to deal with the trial.
A settlement is the way that most of these cases are resolved. If you are considering this option, you should remember the pros and cons as you try to decide if this is the way that you want your case to be handled.
One of the most important things for many people in this situation is that the settlement will get the case over with faster and it is often less expensive. The settlement allows you to put the legal battle behind you so that you can work on overcoming the emotional turmoil that comes with the tragic death of someone you love.
On the downside, you will likely give up your right to pursue further legal action in the case as part of the settlement agreement. This is why it is important to think carefully about the monetary amount you are willing to accept. You shouldn’t take a low ball offer just so that you can get the money faster.
Another consideration in these cases is that the settlement gives you certainty. You don’t have to wonder if the jury is going to see things your way. You will know the terms of the resolution ahead of time and you have a say in what you will accept. This is a good benefit if you are a planner who need to know these things in advance.
Source: FindLaw, “Resolution Before Trial: Settlement,” accessed May 11, 2018
