Will I have to go to court? If so, what if I can’t face the defendant?

Many, if not most, injury claims are settled outside of court through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration before trial. However, if you are offered an inadequate sum of money as a settlement, it is your right to have a trial. Insurance companies and adjusters find no issue with settling beneath an already low compensation rate; Sometimes, in order to receive the best and fairest settlement, going to trial or the threat of going to trial is often necessary. Of course, there are risks involved in rejecting a defendant's offer and going to trial. Your lawyer will advise you of the best route to take if facing the defendant is not an option, depending on the circumstances.