Why Settle?

• The cost of a lawsuit varies considerably, depending on the subject matter. For example, patent litigation can cost in the millions of dollars while a typical personal injury cost could be litigated for as little as $10,000. Without a guaranteed outcome, the financial risk of going to trial makes settlement an attractive option.
  
  

Settlement Process

• The settlement process also varies, depending on the subject matter of the case. Generally, attorneys will meet and exchange documents several times, even prior to formal discovery as part of the lawsuit, to prove their respective clients' claims. The plaintiff's lawyer will make a demand for what they believe a jury will award and the defense attorney will counter that demand until negotiations reach a final number.
  
  

Resolution of Liability

• It is rare that a settlement agreement will include an admission of liability. Most settlement agreements include a provision that specifically dismisses the issue of liability and an agreement to drop the claims forever in exchange for a specified amount of money. Settlement agreements are also usually confidential so the information will not entice other potential claimants to sue.