How Do Michigan Car Accident Court Proceedings Go?

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If you get into a car accident in Michigan and you know someone else caused your wreck, suing the at-fault party can be the best way to recover compensation for your damages. But, you may feel hesitant to file a claim if you’ve never taken legal action before. Going to court can seem scary, but when you hire an experienced legal team, it can ease your fears.

At Christensen Law, we’ve handled numerous car accident cases. We have an in-depth understanding of Michigan’s court process, and a Detroit car accident lawyer from our team will support you with your claim every step of the way.

Initiating Your Lawsuit


Before beginning your lawsuit, a lawyer will investigate your case and gather information about the liable party. You’ll want evidence to support your claim before you officially file. You’ll also want to calculate the value of your damages so you know how much money to demand from the defendant. Once you’re confident about the details of your case, you can send a demand letter to the defendant.

The Pretrial Process


The defendant will respond to your demand letter and either award you a settlement or enter negotiations. It’s unlikely that the defendant will accept your initial offer, so your attorney will prepare to negotiate with them. If the defendant refuses to settle for a reasonable amount during negotiations, you must go to court to settle the case.

Going to Court


Court is where you must prove negligence against the defendant and show the judge and jury why you deserve compensation for your wreck. Because you and your attorney prepared most of your case before writing the demand letter, you should feel confident going to trial. You must prepare to present your evidence and possibly testify, but your lawyer will do most of the talking in court.

The jury will deliver a verdict once both parties present arguments, evidence, and cross-examine witnesses. If the jury rules in your favor, they’ll lay out the details of your settlement.

Reach Out to a Detroit Car Accident Attorney


No one deserves to be injured in a car accident because of someone else’s negligence. It’s important to hold the at-fault party in your wreck accountable if you hope to receive a settlement and recover from your injuries without financial stress.

If you’d like to discuss your case with a Detroit car accident lawyer from Christensen Law, call or fill out the contact form below to schedule a free consultation.