Every plaintiff goes into a lawsuit expecting a fair settlement. However, this is not an easy task, as fighting a lawsuit can be a long, complicated battle. At times, it can feel easier to settle early than to fight for longer. There are some things a plaintiff can do to help receive fair compensation:
Be organized. Going into the courtroom prepared is key to effectively fighting a case. While the plaintiff’s lawyer is mostly responsible for making sure everything is in order, it is beneficial to the case for the plaintiff to be involved. Make sure all the proper documentation surrounding the incident is in order and any other evidence involved with the case. When the plaintiff is involved and on top of their game, their credibility is is strengthened.
Stay out of the red. Many plaintiffs don’t realize just how important their financial health is to their case. Lawsuits can take a huge financial toll on plaintiffs. The incident that they are seeking damage for, such as lost wages or medical bills from a personal injury, must be financially covered by the plaintiff or their insurance until the case settles, and often insurance isn’t enough to make ends meet. The problem is, lawsuits usually take a long time, time that might be spent unemployed or injured. This often results in the case settling early due to pressing bills that the plaintiff feels can’t wait. It is also common for the defense to use this to their advantage—stalling a case in order to pressure the plaintiff into settling can be cheaper than paying the plaintiff what they deserve.
Stay focused. Just as a plaintiff wants to stay organized, it’s also important for the plaintiff to have a clear mind. If a plaintiff grows frustrated by the lawsuit’s progress, they are more likely to settle sooner rather than keep fighting. Part of staying focused involves the plaintiff’s finances as well. If they have pressing bills at home, they may feel too stressed to wait any longer.
One strategy that can help plaintiffs stay focused, organized, and financially stable is using presettlement funding. This type of funding lets the plaintiff use their settlement to help them during the lawsuit, which can actually be seen as an investment for a fair settlement in the way that it takes away the financial and stress-related pressure to settle early. Lawsuit loans are just for plaintiffs, so the process is quick and easy to avoid even more stress and hassle.
About the Author: Steven Medvin is the Executive Director of SMP Advance Funding, LLC, which provides lawsuit funding to individuals who need a lawsuit loan for pending lawsuits. For more information please visit www.smpadvance.com.
