Do I Have to Go to Trial or Do I Have Options? Learn All About an Alternative Way to Resolve Your Modesto Motorcycle Accident Case: Mediation
For many motorcycle accident victims in Modesto, California, the idea of taking a case to trial can certainly feel intimidating. Indeed, when a Modesto motorcycle accident victim is already recovering from serious injuries, juggling medical bills, and dealing with lost income, the thought of testifying in court or waiting months for a verdict can add even more stress to the already painful equation. The good news is that most motorcycle accident cases in California actually do not go to trial. Instead, many cases are resolved through a process called mediation, which is an effective and, typically, less stressful way to reach a fair settlement without the uncertainty of a courtroom battle. Here we discuss what exactly the mediation process is in a Modesto motorcycle case, and where to find legal help to get to the negotiation table.
What is Mediation in a Modesto Motorcycle Accident Case?
Simply put, mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that allows both parties or sides in a legal dispute to meet with a neutral third party (a person who is not involved in the litigation at all), known as a mediator, to negotiate a possible settlement. The mediator is not a judge and does not make binding decisions. Instead, the mediator’s job is to help both sides communicate openly, explore their options, and find common ground. The mediator may be a retired judge, or a lawyer with experience in the practice area.
The mediation process is typically a voluntary process, meaning that the parties to a lawsuit only need to engage in mediation if they agree to it. If the mediation is successful, then the terms of the settlement are usually memorialized in a memorandum of understanding or a settlement agreement. If the mediation fails, then the parties must typically go back to the drawing board, and must litigate their case in court. Mediation can be a less expensive, less time-consuming process, because it brings the parties together typically for one day to resolve the case. It also gives the parties to the dispute the power to make the ultimate decisions, rather than leaving the decision-making to a jury or a judge.
Finding Legal Help for Your Modesto Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
In sum, mediation is a favorable alternative process in many Modesto motorcycle accidents, and may provide a more efficient, less expensive route to resolve a motorcycle victim’s claims than a full-blown trial in court. If you are in the Modesto or Stockton area and you need legal help with your motorcycle accident case, contact the experienced Modesto, California and Stockton, California motorcycle accident lawyers at The Law Firm of R. Sam. The experienced legal team at The Law Firm of R. Sam is here to help Modesto, California and Stockton, California motorcycle accident victims get justice for their injuries and losses. Contact The Law Firm or R. Sam today and speak with a lawyer about your case now.