If you’ve been injured in an accident and have won a personal injury verdict, you may be wondering what happens if the defendant decides to appeal the verdict. Here’s what you need to know about defending a personal injury verdict on appeal:
- The defendant has the right to appeal: If the defendant is unhappy with the verdict, they have the right to appeal the case to a higher court. This typically means that the case will be re-evaluated by a panel of judges, who will decide whether the original verdict should stand or be overturned.
- The appeals process can be lengthy: The appeals process can be lengthy, and it’s not uncommon for cases to take years to work their way through the system. It’s important to be prepared for the possibility that the case may drag on for an extended period of time.
- You may need to defend the verdict: If the defendant decides to appeal the verdict, you may need to defend the original decision. This can involve presenting your case to the appeals court and providing evidence to support your claim. It’s important to work closely with your lawyer to ensure that your case is properly prepared for the appeals process.
- The appeals court may overturn the verdict: It’s important to be aware that the appeals court has the power to overturn the original verdict. If the appeals court decides to overturn the verdict, you may need to start the legal process over again, either by negotiating a settlement or by filing a new lawsuit.
- You may be able to negotiate a settlement: Even if the defendant decides to appeal the verdict, it’s still possible to negotiate a settlement. If you’re able to reach a settlement, it can bring the case to a close and allow you to move on with your life.
If you’re facing an appeal after winning a personal injury verdict, it’s important to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury lawyer. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and ensure that you receive the best possible outcome.
In conclusion, if you’ve won a personal injury verdict, the defendant has the right to appeal the case to a higher court. The appeals process can be lengthy and you may need to defend the original verdict. It’s important to be prepared for the possibility that the appeals court may overturn the verdict, but you may also be able to negotiate a settlement to bring the case to a close. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand.