Do I Need a “Trial Lawyer” for My Tampa Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit?

If you’re approaching a slip-and-fall lawsuit in Tampa, you might wonder whether you’ll “go to court.” What if your claim leads to a jury trial? Do you need a “trial lawyer” in this situation? The answer to this question probably depends on your unique situation, and you might want to discuss the case in more detail with a lawyer.

How Are Trial Lawyers Different?

What exactly makes “trial lawyers” distinct from other types of attorneys? First, it’s worth noting that all licensed lawyers have the same basic educational qualifications. In order to practice law in Florida, you must obtain a law degree (juris doctor) after obtaining an undergraduate degree. This translates to roughly seven years of university education. Lawyers must also pass the Florida Bar before finally serving clients in the Sunshine State.

Trial lawyers are distinct because they have trial experience. Theoretically, anyone can call themselves a “trial lawyer,” even if they have no trial experience. As an injured victim, you can determine whether someone has trial experience by reviewing their background. For example, Timothy G. Anderson Jr. tried his first trial in his third year of law school, and he has subsequently navigated numerous jury trials.

Trial lawyers in Tampa are often members of the “Tampa Bay Trial Lawyers Association.” They often have solid oral skills, and they are able to express complex arguments and concepts in ways that the average jury can easily understand. They also gather and present evidence, participate in jury selection processes, and cross-examine witnesses.

In contrast, many injury lawyers focus more on pre-trial phases. These include the information-gathering process of “discovery” and negotiations. The vast majority of personal injury cases are “settled” by parties during these negotiations, and they never reach the trial stage.

You Need a Trial Lawyer if Negotiations Fail

Generally speaking, injured victims turn to trial lawyers if negotiations with insurers break down (or never happen in the first place). For example, the insurance adjuster might offer an extremely low settlement during these negotiations. If the offer is too low and the adjuster refuses to come up with a better offer, the injured victim may have no choice but to pursue compensation via the trial process.

Sometimes, insurers refuse to even enter into negotiations, perhaps because they believe a case has no merit. In this situation, the victim might also be forced to hold the defendant accountable by proceeding with a trial. 

Can a Slip-and-Fall Lawyer in Tampa Help Me?

A slip-and-fall lawyer in Tampa may be able to help if you’re recovering from a head injury, a hip fracture, a sprained ankle, or any other fall-related injuries. Although it’s true that most injury claims never reach the trial stage, there are always exceptions. If a trial becomes inevitable, it makes sense to work with a lawyer who has considerable trial experience, such as Timothy G. Anderson Jr. Contact Anderson & Anderson today to learn more.

Source: 

floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-journal/settlement-offers-and-personal-injury-identifying-the-break-even-offer/