Potential clients who come to Christensen Law often worry that filing a personal injury claim means going to trial. That’s a myth. The truth is that the majority of personal injury cases resolve through a settlement with an insurance company or through a process known as mediation.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that occurs before a case reaches the courtroom. It has several advantages. First, a successful mediation can avoid the cost and risk of a drawn-out trial. Mediation has also been shown to have high settlement rates and is a faster means of resolving cases, according to the Michigan State Court Administration Office.
Injured in an accident and not sure what to do? Contact Christensen Law. Our accomplished team of Michigan personal injury lawyers can guide you through the claims process from start to finish. When you work with us, you’ll get a knowledgeable attorney who can explain mediation and whether it is right for your case. Call or contact us now for a free consultation.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is an attempt to reach a settlement without the need for a trial.
In mediation, the involved parties and their attorneys sit down with a neutral third party (called a mediator) to discuss the contested parts of the case and try to reach a settlement. The mediator is not a judge and cannot order you to accept a decision. Instead, the goal is to work together to achieve a resolution that all parties can accept.
Is Mediation a Required Step?
Mediation is a voluntary process, which means both parties must agree to it. If both parties agree, the case can move forward.
Personal Injury Mediation Process
- Select a mediator. Usually, a mediator is a retired attorney or judge.
- Scheduling: The parties will arrange to meet at a time that is convenient and timely for everyone. You and your lawyer will meet with the mediator independently to review the facts of the case and the legal matters in dispute. In some cases, the mediator may suggest a joint meeting with the other side. However, you are not required to accept the mediator’s recommendation.
- Negotiations: The mediator will move between rooms to discuss settlement offers. In some cases, this will happen several times as the parties make counteroffers and try to reach an agreement.
- Settlement: Ideally, the case will resolve through mediation. However, if the parties cannot reach a resolution, the case may move to trial.
Mediation can be a valuable tool to resolve your case more quickly. If you choose mediation, your lawyer will be with you the entire time to explain what’s happening and make recommendations. You should never feel forced to accept a settlement in mediation.
Christensen Law: Fighting for You to Get the Compensation You Deserve
At Christensen Law, our personal injury attorneys in Michigan will work to obtain maximum compensation for you as quickly as possible. That may come through direct negotiations with the insurance company, alternative dispute resolution, or a trial. No matter what path your case may take, you can rest assured that we’ll stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
Get an advocate you can trust. Get Christensen Law. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
