Will I have to go to court for a personal injury claim?

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May 22, 2025

When you’ve been hurt in an accident, the thought of going to court can feel like one more thing to worry about. You’re already dealing with injuries, medical bills, and the stress of recovery—adding a courtroom drama on top of that? No, thank you. The good news is, most personal injury cases in Minnesota never actually see the inside of a courtroom.

So, let’s talk about why that is, what the process really looks like, and how a Minneapolis medical malpractice lawyer or personal injury attorney like Mark Perron at Perron Law Office can help you feel prepared—whether you end up going to court or not.

Settlements: The Most Common Path

Here’s the truth—most personal injury claims are resolved through settlements, not trials. A settlement is basically an agreement between you and the other party (or their insurance company) to pay a certain amount of money for your injuries. It’s a way to resolve the claim without dragging it through the courts.

Why Do Most Cases Settle?

Settlements are faster and less stressful than going to trial. They also give both sides more control—no judge or jury making unpredictable decisions. Plus, let’s face it, trials can get expensive and take months (or even years!) to wrap up.

So, while you’re probably worried about going to court, the reality is that most of the time, you won’t need to.

When You Might Have to Go to Court

Of course, sometimes a trial is necessary. If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer or tries to deny your claim altogether, your lawyer might recommend taking the case to court.

Here’s when a trial might come into play:

The insurance company disputes who was at fault.
There’s a big gap between what you’re asking for and what they’re offering.
They’re not taking your injuries seriously.

How a Minneapolis Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help

An experienced lawyer like Mark Perron will do everything possible to avoid trial if that’s what you want. But if going to court is the best way to get the compensation you deserve, he’s ready to fight for you every step of the way.

The Pre-Trial Process: What Happens Before Court

Even if you file a lawsuit, you probably won’t head straight to trial. There’s a whole process called “discovery” where both sides gather evidence. This can take months. Your lawyer will:

Collect your medical records.
Interview witnesses.
Get expert opinions (especially important in medical malpractice cases).

At the same time, they’ll be negotiating with the other side to see if you can reach a settlement before trial.

Mediation and Arbitration: Other Ways to Settle

Sometimes, cases are resolved through mediation or arbitration—basically, ways to work out an agreement without stepping foot in a courtroom.

Mediation: A neutral third party helps both sides reach a compromise.
Arbitration: A neutral person makes a decision (like a mini-trial, but faster and private).

What to Expect If You Do Go to Court

If your case does end up in front of a judge or jury, here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

Jury Selection: Picking the folks who’ll decide your case.
Opening Statements: Your lawyer and the other side explain their arguments.
Testimony and Evidence: Witnesses talk about what happened, and your medical records are reviewed.
Closing Arguments: Each side sums up their case.
Verdict: The jury or judge makes a decision.

Sounds like a lot? It is! But remember—your lawyer will handle the heavy lifting.

The Role of a Lawyer in Avoiding Trial

Mark Perron at Perron Law Office has years of experience as a Minneapolis medical malpractice lawyer and personal injury attorney. He knows how to:

Build a strong case from the start.
Negotiate with insurance companies to avoid trial if possible.
Prepare for court if it’s the best way to get you justice.

How to Prepare Yourself, Just in Case

Even if you’re hoping to avoid court, it’s smart to be prepared. Here’s what you can do:

Keep Records: Save all your medical bills, receipts, and any communication about the accident.
Stay in Touch: Communicate openly with your lawyer—share any concerns or new information.
Be Patient: These things can take time, but your lawyer will keep you updated along the way.

Will I Have to Testify?

This is a big question for many folks. If you go to court, you might need to testify about how the accident happened and how your injuries have affected your life. It can be stressful, but your lawyer will help you feel prepared and supported.

Don’t Let Courtroom Fears Stop You from Getting Help

At the end of the day, the fear of going to court shouldn’t stop you from getting the compensation you’re entitled to. Whether you’re dealing with a car accident, a slip and fall, or a medical mistake, the first step is to talk to a lawyer who can help you understand your options.

Final Thoughts: Talk to Someone Who Knows the System

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry. Mark Perron and the team at Perron Law Office are here to answer your questions and help you figure out the best path forward. They’ll handle the legal headaches so you can focus on healing.

If you’re looking for a Personal Injury Lawyer in Minneapolis, Perron Law Office is the most trusted name in the Twin Cities area. Simply reach out on (651) 317-8133 to schedule your free consultation.