Personal Injury Trials

Personal injury trials in Alabama follow a similar process to other states in the United States. Here is a brief overview of the key stages involved:

• Filing a Complaint: The personal injury lawsuit begins with the plaintiff (injured person) filing a complaint in the appropriate court in Alabama. This document outlines the nature of the claim, the parties involved, and the relief sought.
• Discovery: Both the plaintiff and defendant have the opportunity to gather information and evidence through the discovery process. This may involve written interrogatories, depositions, and requests for documents.
• Pre-Trial Motions: Prior to trial, either party may file motions to request a particular ruling or to exclude certain evidence.
• Jury Selection: In Alabama, both the plaintiff and defendant have the right to a jury trial. During jury selection, attorneys for both sides question potential jurors to determine their qualifications to serve on the jury.
• Opening Statements: Each side has the opportunity to make an opening statement to the jury, outlining their arguments and what they hope to prove.
• Presentation of Evidence: During the trial, both sides present evidence to support their case. This may include witness testimony, expert opinions, and physical evidence.
• Closing Arguments: After all evidence has been presented, each side has the opportunity to make a closing argument to the jury.
• Jury Deliberation and Verdict: The jury then deliberates and reaches a verdict, which is announced in open court.
• Post-Trial Motions: Either party may file post-trial motions requesting that the judge overturn the verdict or order a new trial.
• Appeal: If either party is dissatisfied with the outcome of the trial, they may file an appeal with the appropriate appellate court in Alabama.