Connecticut personal injury arbitration can be an effective way to resolve cases.
You are going about your daily routine. And then something happens. A dog bites you. A car comes crashing into you. You fall on ice and break your leg. Your lawyer tells you your cases been dismissed for failing to file paperwork. Life changes on a dime.
No one ever expects to become a plaintiff. But it happens.
Like many folks find out, The insurance company refuses to do the right thing. And suddenly you find yourself in the lawyer’s office. Suddenly your injury is a case. And you have questions. One of those questions is “how will this case resolve?”
The statistics tell us that 97% of Connecticut personal-injury cases resolve prior to a jury trial. Sometimes they resolve prior to filing suit. This post explores arbitration in Connecticut personal injury cases.
What is Connecticut Personal Injury Arbitration?
Private Connecticut personal injury arbitration is a process where the parties agree to have their case heard by a third party neutral fact finder. That fact finder renders a decision that is binding on the parties. Connecticut personal injury arbitration happens by contract. The parties agree to the rules. And agree to be bound by the ruling of the fact finder.
Arbitrations often involve testimony. And parties agree to the admission of documents. An arbitration can last as long as several days in complicated cases or may even be taken “on the papers” without the need for testimony.
Who are Connecticut Personal Injury Arbitrators?
Arbitrators are usually respected and experienced personal injury attorneys or retired judges. Sometimes the parties agree to a three arbitrator panel. Other times there is only one arbitrator.
What is Court Ordered Arbitration?
Court ordered arbitration applies to cases in Connecticut with an anticipated value of under $50,000. Unlike private arbitration court ordered arbitration is both free and non binding. It is non binding in the sense that either party can appeal the decision of the arbitrator and the case will proceed to trial. The purpose of court ordered arbitration is to try to inform the parties of the potential outcome and encourage settlement.
What is the Difference Between Connecticut Personal Injury Arbitration and Mediation?
Mediation in Connecticut personal injury cases is a voluntary process where the parties agree to a settlement. In a private arbitration, the arbitrator decides on an outcome.
Is Arbitration Right for me?
It depends on the case. Some cases are ripe for arbitration. Arbitration can result in a faster and cheaper resolution of a personal injury case. In other cases, a jury is more appropriate. Only an experienced Connecticut Personal Injury attorney can help you make this decision.
You may want to check out our free Connecticut Personal Injury Vault for answers to other commonly asked questions. Or you can always call me (860) 471-8333.