Settlement versus judgment. A settlement is an agreement between both parties to the lawsuit that resolves their dispute prior to trial. A judgment is an official designation entered on a court’s docket that signifies that a plaintiff has prevailed in a court case against the named defendant.
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A settlement does not usually state that anyone was right or wrong in the case, nor does it have to settle the entire case. Part of the dispute can be settled, with the remaining issue(s) left to be resolved by the judge or jury. It is a personal decision when you should accept a settlement, but the bottom line is that it should be when the amount of financial compensation is worth it for you. There are some things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to accept a settlement:
- Victims can reject settlements and still receive compensation. Settlements are not a “now or never” type of situation. Even if you reject a proposal, you and your Burger Law personal injury lawyer still have a chance to negotiate.
- Settlements are binding. It is important to note that after you accept a settlement that it includes a release of liability. This means the insurance company will no longer be required to pay anything in the future, and you can never take the case back to court.
- Your injuries may not seem serious, but can become more severe over time. This is why it is very important to go to a doctor immediately after your accident. You never know what the future might hold, and being quick to accept a settlement may get you less than you deserve.
- Cost of accident vs. settlement offer. Although your first settlement offer may include the obvious expenses – damage to your car, your lost wages, your medical expenses – they will often not offer to cover the entire expense of the accident. Be sure that your settlement is fair and includes things like future lost earnings, as well as pain and suffering.
If you are severely injured in an accident that is not your fault, and the at-fault driver does not carry bodily injury coverage or the policy does not fully compensate you for your damages, pursuing a judgment by filing a lawsuit may be the route to take. By going to trial, you do risk the chance that a judgment will be less than what you could have received with an out-of-court settlement. But one reason you may want to pursue a judgment specifically is if you feel the settlement is not fair compensation.
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What our clients are saying about us
Juanita Matthews
Year of 2023
This law firm is absolutely amazing. They took on my case, when nobody else would! They fought hard for me when it seemed there was no hope. They kept me informed and always asked for my input before making decisions on my case. Gary puts himself into every case unlike most law firm owners. Gary and his team really care about every one of their clients, and fights hard to get you a fair settlement. They actually won my case out of court, and then reduced my fees to make sure I could get my car fixed and be able to get back to some normality. I would recommend Burger Law over and above any other firm! If you go somewhere else you aren’t getting the best!
Shaunda S.
7 months ago
I am very happy with the staff at Burger Law. I mostly worked with Michael Sheldon, and he did an amazing job. I trusted him completely with my case, and he did not disappoint. I would definitely recommend this team if your ever in need of good attorneys.
Emelia M.
3 months ago
Burger Law Firm is fantastic. Laura and Genevieve were so amazing and helpful throughout the entire process. They helped me with my personal injury case every step of the way and succeeded at getting me the results I desired.
Helen L.
a year ago
We had a great experience with Burger Law for representing us after a serious car accident. Truly impressed by how professional and supportive the entire team is. And, many thanks to Genavieve and Laura – you are amazing!
Judy M.
a year ago
They did an amazing job on my case! Communication with them was great!!! Kept me informed and in the loop with everything that was going on!!! Will definitely be the 1st ones I’ll call if ever I’m in another accident!!! Thank you very much!!!
Chelsea C.
5 months ago
Let me tell you something about Burger Law.. they are so attentive and kind. Jennifer is my savior!! I love the whole team!!! They are truly a miracle team!! I appreciate their business and would recommend it to others.
David D.
2 months ago
Absolutely the best law firm in the St. Louis area. No matter the size of your case you are treated as if you are the only client on the roster. Will explain anything thoroughly and they work around your availability. Very impressed and appreciative of the service.
Lisa B.
11 months ago
Gary and Casey took great care of me for 2.5 years as my lawsuit was finally settled. I feel he helped me achieve justice for me and my 4 children after their father died from medical malpractice and neglect. Thanks to Gary, my kids now have a great start to their college and adult lives. Thank you Gary and Casey, for fighting for us so hard at our most trying and difficult time in our lives thus far. Love and God bless from my family to yours!