Professional Personal Injury Lawyers in Houston, Texas
The Lobo Ley staff strives to handle all cases as quickly as possible, based on the individual factors involved in each. However, each injury claim does follow a process and takes time to evolve. We keep our injured clients informed regarding this process, encouraging a patient and cooperative attorney/client relationship that results in an atmosphere conducive to a just resolution of an injury claim.
Again, while each individual’s claim differs, consider the following timeline, which roughly tracks the average process of a personal injury claim. Certain claims take substantially longer than the following depiction evidence, but the series of events for most claims is substantially similar.
Typical Example of the Injury Claim Process
Most personal injury claims progress through two major stages:
- Diagnosis
- Litigation
Diagnosis Timeline
A proper medical diagnosis is critical—not only for your health, but also for evaluating the value of your claim. A diagnosis and a clear prognosis help define the extent of your injuries and expected recovery.
Month 1
- Initial consultations with the law firm and early investigation begin.
Months 1–3
- You receive medical treatment for your injuries.
Months 1–6
- Continued medical care and documentation of your injuries and treatments.
Months 3–12
- More detailed documentation and negotiations with the insurance company typically take place during this period.
Beyond 12 Months
- Settlement discussions continue, and if a fair settlement can’t be reached, a lawsuit may be filed.
Litigation Timeline
Litigation begins when a lawsuit is filed and involves all court-related procedures. The goal is to resolve disputes through the legal system, and your attorney acts as your advocate before the judge and jury.
Months 1–4
- The lawsuit is filed (“Suit”) and the defendant files an official response (“Answer”).
Months 2–9
- Discovery — both sides exchange evidence, take depositions, and begin building their cases.
Months 6–12
- Additional discovery may take place, and mediation is often used to attempt settlement before trial.
Months 9–18 and Beyond
- The case moves toward trial setting and, if necessary, a court trial may occur.
