HOW LONG WILL MY CASE TAKE?

One of the most pressing questions for anyone considering legal action after an accident is, "How long will my case take?" It is understandable to want a quick resolution and closure after experiencing a car crash, loss of a loved one, or any other incident leading to personal injury. Craig Hensel, of Hensel Law PLLC, recognizes the importance of this question and is here to shed light on the length of a lawsuit and what factors might affect the timeline of your personal injury case in Billings, Montana.

Key Factors Influencing the Timeline of Your Case

1. Complexity of the Case: The details of your accident—such as the evidence available, the clarity of fault, and the severity of injuries—can significantly impact how long the claim process and the legal process takes.  More complex cases may require additional time for thorough investigation and expert testimony.  In Montana, a typical personal injury case (i.e. a car accident) has a three-year statute of limitations, meaning you must settle a claim or initiate litigation within three years of the incident. 

2. Extent of Injuries: The full extent of your injuries, prognoses, and future treatment needs must be understood before settling a case to ensure you receive adequate compensation.  Insurers in Montana are obligated to pay for your accident-related treatment, so ideally all your medical expenses will be paid, and all your treatment needs addressed before we discuss settlement with an insurer.  If you have permanent injuries or will need medical care indefinitely, we need medical documentation of these facts before settlement negotiations occur.

3. Legal Process and Negotiations: The stages of a lawsuit, from filing the complaint to pre-trial motions and negotiations, all take time.  Settlement negotiations can also vary in length, depending on the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement, and whether mediation is successful. 

4. Court Scheduling and Delays: How long a case takes to get to trial depends on many things, including the venue where your case is filed and how busy the court’s docket is.  The litigation process can be very protracted depending on many factors – many of which are outside of anyone’s control.    

Length of Lawsuit: A General Overview

While it is challenging to predict the exact duration of any legal case due to the variables involved, most personal injury lawsuits can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to resolve.  Craig Hensel understands that waiting for the conclusion of your case can be frustrating.  That is why Hensel Law PLLC is committed to efficiently advancing your case while ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Why Trust Hensel Law PLLC with Your Case?

• Personalized Attention: Craig Hensel provides personalized attention to each case, understanding that your life is significantly impacted by the outcome.

• Strategic Negotiation: With extensive experience in personal injury law, Craig Hensel is skilled at negotiating timely settlements that fairly compensate for your injuries and losses.

• Commitment to Communication: You will be kept informed throughout the legal process, so you always know the status of your case and what to expect next.

Final Thoughts

While the question, "How long will my case take?" does not have a one-size-fits-all answer, having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney like Craig Hensel can make all the difference.  At Hensel Law PLLC, we strive to make the legal process as transparent and efficient as possible, providing you with the support and guidance needed during this challenging time.

If you are dealing with the aftermath of an accident in Billings, MT, and wondering about the length of your lawsuit, contact Hensel Law PLLC for a consultation.  Let us help you navigate the complexities of your case with the dedication and expertise you deserve.