Everyone Should Learn a Little about Law
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Everyone Should Learn a Little about Law

While lawyers and judges are the ultimate legal experts, of course, I believe that every citizen should take the time to learn a little about law for several reasons. First, it is important to know your rights, and knowing them can come in handy if anyone ever accuses you of a crime you didn't commit or threatens you legally in another other way. Second, learning about your local, state, and federal laws can help you act as a better citizen. When election time comes around, you can then truly understand ever change in law being proposed by a candidate and whether it benefits society or not. I plan to share posts about law topics explained in plain English on my new blog, so you can come back often to sharpen your legal knowledge!

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Everyone Should Learn a Little about Law

Facing A Personal Injury Trial? What Victims Must Know

Kaylee Wells

Although many accident cases get settled out of court, some must proceed to court. You can approach the trial with less stress and more confidence by taking note of the below issues.

Be Very Careful

Accident victims should not expect to turn things over to their auto accident attorney and then step away from the action. Your constant attention is needed so that every part of the case goes forward. If your injuries were very serious and the amount of money very large, for example, you might be under surveillance by the other side. The at-fault driver's insurance company may employ a detective to keep watch on your movements. This is an effort to show that you may not be as injured as you claimed to be in your suit. You could be photographed and videoed while in your own yard, while going to a doctor's appointment, and more.

Be Honest and Forthcoming

You should plan on spilling everything to your auto accident attorney. They won't tell anyone anything because they are bound by client-attorney confidentiality rules. Some accident victims, though, are not aware of how damaging withheld information can be. Be ready to disclose former accidents, medical conditions, lawsuits, criminal activity, bankruptcies, driving violations, and more. You never know what the other side will dig up about you, and you want your lawyer to be prepared to deal with it just in case.

Be Ready to Take the Stand

Both your deposition and your time on the stand will probably require you to recall facts about the accident. In many cases, that accident could probably happened months ago. To aid you in remembering, look back over your insurance, accident, and medical files to refresh yourself about the facts of the case. Your personal injury lawyer may also work with you by doing a few practice question and answer sessions before the trial. Be prepared because hesitancy and inaccuracy when being questioned can seriously affect your case outcome.

Courtroom Behavior Is Everything

Follow these courtroom tips while on the stand:

  1. Stay calm and cool and don't allow yourself to be rushed or intimidated by the insurer's legal team.
  2. If you don't have the answer to a question asked by the insurance lawyer, say so. Your own lawyer can help you remember better on cross-exam.
  3. Listen carefully to the question, the entire question, before responding. Don't speculate or guess about anything.
  4. Make a connection with the jury. Accident injuries can cause untold misery and pain. Your ability to communicate the depth of that misery is a key piece of the case. Stay focused and factual, but don't hesitate to show emotions when the time is right.

Click here for more information about working with an auto accident attorney.


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