Most personal injury cases settle before trial — but when insurance companies refuse fair value, DePaoli Law Team takes cases all the way to a jury. Understanding the trial process can reduce anxiety and help you make informed decisions. Here is exactly what happens.
Before Trial — Preparation That Wins Cases
Winning at trial starts long before the first day. DePaoli Law Team's pre-trial preparation includes:
- Witness preparation — reviewing deposition transcripts and preparing each witness
- Expert witness retention — medical experts, accident reconstructionists, economists
- Exhibit preparation — medical illustrations, crash reconstructions, timeline graphics
- Jury research — understanding the community profile of likely jurors
- Trial strategy development — deciding which evidence to emphasize and how
- Mock trial and focus groups for complex cases
The Phases of a Personal Injury Trial
Jury Selection (Voir Dire) — Both sides question potential jurors and may remove biased jurors from the panel. This phase can take one to two days.
Opening Statements — Each attorney previews their case for the jury. DePaoli Law Team uses this phase to establish the emotional and factual foundation of the victim's story.
Plaintiff's Case in Chief — DePaoli Law Team presents evidence: witness testimony, medical expert testimony, economic expert testimony, and exhibits.
Defense Case — The defendant presents their witnesses and evidence, attempting to minimize liability and damages.
Closing Arguments — Each side summarizes the evidence and asks the jury for a specific verdict.
Jury Deliberations — The jury decides liability and damages. In California, a three-quarter verdict (9 of 12 jurors) is sufficient in civil cases.
The Verdict — The jury announces their findings. DePaoli Law Team's largest trial verdict was $3,850,000+ — achieved after rejecting an $800,000 pre-trial offer.
How Long Does a Personal Injury Trial Take?
Simple cases with clear liability and limited damages: 3 to 5 days. Moderate complexity cases: 1 to 2 weeks. Complex catastrophic injury or wrongful death cases: 2 to 6 weeks.
DePaoli Law Team won a three-week jury trial in Stanislaus County that resulted in a $3.85M+ verdict. That commitment to seeing cases through — regardless of the time required — is what separates a trial attorney from a settlement attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Your Specific Situation?
Call DePaoli Law Team at (916) 962-2896 or submit your case online for a free, confidential evaluation. No fee unless we win. CA Bar #283310.