In a personal injury case that has merit, your attorney will often talk to you about the benefits of taking a settlement. When the other party's negligence is evident, it will often seek to avoid the cost of going to court — and will extend a settlement offer to you early on. People often make the mistake of assuming that they can only take a settlement before the case goes to court, but this isn't true. Even after your case has begun, you may wish to take a settlement upon discussing this idea with your attorney. Here are three times that this may be the right move.

A Resolution May Take A Long Time

Early on in court proceedings, it's often possible to get an approximate idea of how long it will take to resolve the legal matter. Some personal injury cases are quick to wrap up, but this isn't always the case. If it's evident early on that you're looking at a lengthy amount of time in court, you may want to express your interest in a settlement. Even if you turned down a settlement earlier, your attorney can reopen this discussion with the other party.

You Feel Reluctant To Testify

It's common to have to testify in your own personal injury case. Your presence in speaking to the court allows your attorney to show the impact that the injury has had on your life. For example, you weeping because of financial woes or pain and suffering that have been a part of your life in the wake of your injury is a powerful scene. However, not everyone is cut out to be a star witness. If you feel overwhelmed by the courtroom environment and doubt your ability to effectively testify, you may want to start discussing a settlement.

You Begin To Have Doubts

Any experienced personal injury will be able to assess the strength of your case once he or she has all of the facts. Your confidence in your case can change, however, as the court case begins to unfold. For example, as the other party perhaps introduces witnesses or evidence that you might not have considered, you and your attorney may not feel as confident about a favorable outcome as you once were. There can be times that it's good to opt for a settlement in this type of situation, as you may get more out of it than waiting to see if the court awards damages.

Contact a law office such as Meadows Law Office for more information.