How Long Do Personal Injury Cases Take in California?
Timelines vary a lot by case — a straightforward claim with clear liability and completed medical treatment can sometimes resolve in a few months, while a more complex or disputed case, or one that goes to trial, can take considerably longer.
Factors that tend to extend timelines include disputed liability, ongoing medical treatment (most attorneys wait until treatment is complete or a clear long-term prognosis exists before settling), and court backlogs in a given jurisdiction. An attorney handling your specific case can give a more realistic estimate once they understand the details.
Why do attorneys often wait to settle until medical treatment is finished?
Settling before treatment is complete risks accepting an amount that doesn't account for the full cost and impact of the injury — most attorneys prefer to have a clear medical picture before valuing a claim.
This page is general educational information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Consult a licensed attorney about your specific situation.
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