There are several steps in filing a civil lawsuit after a personal injury. The first and most important is to contact a trial attorney in Tamarac. At Cameron Law Group, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers can help you receive the compensation you need to recover and regain some semblance of normalcy. Whether you have been involved in a car accident, the victim of medical negligence, had a slip and fall, or any other injury, we are all the trial lawyers you need to put the wheels in motion.
Although many civil lawsuits can be resolved outside of court, some make their way to the courtroom. If this happens, you will need a lawyer with prior trial experience to defend you. Our team will carry the brunt of the work as we defend you in front of a judge or jury. Nevertheless, there is some preparation you must do to make a good first impression. If you would like to know what’s expected of you during the trial, you’ve come to the right place.
Meet Deadlines & Show up on Time
After you have filed a lawsuit, now comes paperwork and hearings to attend. It may go without saying, but it is crucial that all deadlines are met, such as choosing a jury trial or a judge. There is no leeway if you miss a deadline and if this happens, the odds are less in your favor. In addition to submitting paperwork on time, you must attend a preliminary hearing. Even though it is not the actual trial, it determines the strength of your case. It is recommended that you show up 20 to 30 minutes before the expected time and come prepared with any documents your attorney advises you to bring.
You won’t be doing any of this on your own. Our team will help you prepare before your trial date, but we also advise that you visit the court’s website to review the local rules.
Do Your Homework
The internet can be an excellent source of information. If this is your first time going to trial, it is a good idea to watch videos and learn what is expected from the plaintiff. We also recommend you learn some of the legal terminologies before your preliminary hearing, so you stay abreast of all the developments as they unfold.
If you would like to go one step further with your research, contact the court clerk to find out which judge will be presiding. Every judge has his or her own style and set of expectations. Learning as much as you can about the judge can give you a slight advantage that you can’t afford to lose.
Learn Everything About Your Case
It is not enough to simply make a claim. Your claim must be backed by a series of facts known as admissible evidence. We will gather the necessary evidence to help build your case, such as obtaining CCTV footage at an accident scene, collecting eyewitness statements, and gathering documents to prove the defendant is liable. In addition to this, if you are going to take the stand, it’s important that you rehearse everything you plan to say. Always be consistent with your story, tell the truth, and work on techniques to remain calm.
Part of knowing your case is to look at it from the other side’s perspective. Are there any weaknesses that need to be fixed? Is there a hole in your story that needs clarification? We will work with you to perfect your testimony.
Be Respectful
Preparation involves more than meeting deadlines, gathering important paperwork, and rehearsing your testimony. You should also remember to be respectful of everyone present, including the defendant. This may be an emotional time, but it’s important now to show your emotions in the courtroom. Even if you don’t think anyone is watching, you should:
- Stay calm and quiet
- Never look petty
- Never interrupt someone while they’re speaking
- Never speak out unless someone addresses you
- Be patient
When it’s your turn to speak, remember to address the judge as “your honor.” This is the correct honorific address to use. Anything else, such as “sir,” or “ma’am,” is inappropriate. Being respectful of courtroom decorum may initially take the backburner as you prepare for the case in other ways. Nevertheless, it is expected and will go a long way in your favor.
Contact Cameron Law Group
If you need a trial attorney in Tamarac to defend you against someone else’s negligence, contact the team at Cameron Law Group. Call (954) 994-2254 today. We are available 24/7 for a consultation.
