Trial
at Wilson, Reives & Doran
If someone else’s actions caused you to sustain an injury or suffer a financial loss, you have the right to sue for damages. You can ask for money to pay your medical expenses, compensate for the time you missed at work, or replace your damaged property.
Some lawsuits settle out of court, but others go to trial. During a civil trial, both sides present their evidence. A judge or jury weighs the evidence and determines whether the defendant should be responsible for paying damages to the person who filed the lawsuit.
The experienced trial attorneys at Wilson, Reives & Doran are ready to help you prepare for trial and take your winning case to court.
What happens during a trial?
How can an experienced trial attorney help?
Going to trial can be scary, especially if you are worried about recovering from your injury or paying for the property damage caused by someone else. Working with an experienced trial attorney allows you to focus on getting your life back.
A skilled trial attorney can help you with all of the following:
- Selecting a suitable jury for your case
- Preparing witnesses to testify on your behalf
- Finding expert witnesses to testify about your injuries
- Gathering evidence to support your case
- Helping you understand what to expect during the trial
- Explaining what is happening during every step of your trial
Why should I meet with a trial attorney?
At Wilson, Reives & Doran, your first consultation will enable you to discuss your case with an experienced trial attorney and determine whether it is strong enough to go to trial.
It’s time to call an attorney
The Wilson, Reives & Doran trial attorneys have a track record of success in helping our clients win their cases. We’ll do all of the legal work necessary to ensure you are ready to take a winning case to trial.
Contact us today to get the guidance and help you need. You can call us toll-free at (919) 775-5653 or use our online Contact Form.
Jurors are Selected to Participate in the Trial
The judge determines if someone is a suitable juror by asking questions about life experiences and personal beliefs. Your trial attorney will also be able to question potential jurors and make objections.
Both Sides Have the Opportunity to Make Opening Statements
Your trial attorney will make an opening statement summarizing your case and explaining why the defendant is responsible for your injury or financial loss.
Both Parties Submit Evidence and Question Witnesses
Because everyone involved in the trial must follow certain legal rules, it’s important to be represented by an experienced trial attorney.
During direct examination, your trial attorney will question all the witnesses you’ve called to testify. Cross-examination is when your trial attorney has the opportunity to question the witnesses called by the defendant.
In addition to questioning witnesses, your trial attorney may submit photographs, video clips, medical reports, or documents to show that the defendant caused you harm.
Both Parties Have the Opportunity to Make Closing Remarks
Your trial attorney will summarize your case in a way that shows the jury why the defendant should be held responsible.
The judge explains the legal standards relevant to the case and discusses the types of damages available. The jury must make a decision based on these principles.
The jury deliberates and makes a verdict. During deliberations, the jurors discuss the case and review information presented during the trial. This can take anywhere from two hours to several weeks. Once the jurors make a decision, they give it to the judge, who then announces it in court.
How Long a Trial Can Last
How long a civil trial lasts can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of witnesses, the amount of evidence, the legal issues involved, and the efficiency of the court proceedings. As a result, civil trials can range from a few days to several weeks or even longer.
It’s important to note that the efficiency and workload of the court system in a particular jurisdiction can also affect trial duration. Additionally, pre-trial motions, jury selection, and post-trial motions can add to the overall time taken for a civil trial.