Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA) Lawyers
Following an injury, an FELA attorney will review the case and provide guidance on whether to settle or go to trial. They have the resources to conduct detailed investigations, obtain statements, perform reenactments, gather documents and records and more.
Railroad companies and their insurance companies have extensive experience in dealing with injury claims and are often focused on limiting the amount of compensation. A FELA lawyer can level the playing field and effectively combat these tactics.
Prepare for trial
Your attorney should help you with an extensive trial preparation regardless of whether you're pursuing a settlement with the other party or going to court. This is essential to the success of your trial. Trial preparation includes the collection of comprehensive evidence and a thorough understanding of the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA).
It is not enough to just be aware of the facts. You must be able convince a jury or judge that they are probably true. This means preparing a narrative for trial, taking depositions and identifying witnesses. It also means preparing for any legal or evidentiary issues you anticipate and writing jury instructions. It is best to start preparations for your trial before the trial date.
During the trial Your lawyer will provide you with a detailed schedule and list of things to bring, such as the outline of witnesses and any exhibits you intend to use. This list should be reviewed several times to find any issues and ensure that your trial preparation is completed. It is also important to visit the courtroom to identify practical issues, like how the courtroom will operate and any technical or logistical issues. Be cool and professional.
Negotiating a Settlement
The FELA claim procedure is a bit complicated and lengthy. It involves several stages along with important legal factors. A FELA attorney with years of experience can help injured railroad workers and ensure that they get the maximum compensation.
After a thorough case evaluation After a thorough case evaluation, your FELA lawyer will prepare the precise plan of action for proceeding with your claim. This will include an explanation of the amount of damages you are entitled to, as well as a timeline of important events that must occur for your claim to succeed.
Your FELA lawyer will begin collecting evidence once the plan is in place. This includes medical records detailing your injury, and witness testimony from witnesses to the incident. It will also include a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the accident, as well as identifying any potential negligence on the part of the railroad.
Your FELA attorney will be working closely with you throughout the process, answering any questions you may have and offering the support you require. They will ensure that you are aware of the legal process and deadlines, as well regularly update you on your case. They will also help you understand any fees or costs associated with your claim and ensure that these are clearly stated in your agreement with them.
Many FELA cases are settled outside of court. Your FELA lawyer will engage in negotiations with the railroad company and their insurance companies to reach an acceptable settlement for your claim. They will leverage the strength of your evidence and prepare an argument that convinces the other side of the importance of your case in order to convince the other side to settle.
If fela claims feels that a fair resolution can't be reached through negotiations then they will prepare your case for trial and present it to a judge or jury. If you are dissatisfied with the result of your trial, your FELA lawyer will defend you and strive to achieve a more favorable verdict.