What is the difference between a verdict and a settlement in Maryland?

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If you were injured because of the negligence of another and you are seeking legal damages, it is important for you to understand the difference between a verdict and a settlement. Our Prince George’s County personal injury attorney can help.

What is the difference between a verdict and a settlement?

A verdict is decided in court and a settlement is an agreement between the plaintiff and defendant outside of court. Most of the time, personal injury lawyers work hard to arrange a fair settlement for their clients because it is generally in everyone’s favor to avoid a trial. When a fair settlement cannot be achieved, personal injury lawyers will represent their clients in court to battle for a judgment by trial. If you would like to learn more about the best way to fix your personal injury case, our firm can help. Give us a call today to get started.

What is a fair settlement?

A fair settlement covers all economic and non-economic losses connected to the accident. It is very essential to consult with a personal injury attorney before taking a settlement offer or trying to bargain with the at-fault insurance adjuster. An attorney has the power to evaluate the true value of your claim and check your legal rights. Insurance companies depend on the fact that most people have no idea about the cost of their claim so they can offer them the smallest settlement possible, or even abandon their claim altogether. Reach out to our firm today if you have further questions or concerns about fair settlements in Maryland.

What compensation can be obtained from a verdict and a settlement?

Even though each personal injury claim is different and will have a precise list of damages, it is expected that the compensation granted in verdicts and settlements will be comparable. Here are some common types of recoverable compensation:

Economic damages:
• Past and future medical bills
• Lost wages
• Reduced or lost earning ability
• Repair or replacement of damaged property
• Lifecare expenses

Non-economic damages:
• Pain and suffering
• Physical impairment
• Disability and disfigurement
• Loss of companionship
• Emotional distress

If you retain the services of a skilled personal injury attorney, he or she will be able to look into the value of each impairment to communicate the general value of a claim. Our legal team is here to help no matter what situation you are in. We are just one call away.

Contact Our Firm

At McCarthy, Winkelman, Mester & Offutt, L.L.P., our legal team has a strong focus on litigation that seeks just and fair compensation for victims of another party’s negligence. If you need a Prince George’s County personal injury lawyer that handles cases in Maryland, Washington D.C., or Virginia, our firm has the resources and knowledge needed to take a case as far as necessary, including to the U.S. Supreme Court. If you suffered an injury or loss because of another person’s negligence, contact us today.

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