The fear behind this question — testifying under cross-examination while strangers judge — describes an ending most cases never reach. Most claims settle before filing; most filed cases settle before trial; and ‘court’ itself includes stages far gentler than the movies.
- The funnel: negotiation resolves the majority; litigation resolves most of the rest through discovery-stage settlements and ADR — trial takes the small remainder where disputes genuinely require a verdict.
- Philadelphia’s arbitration track: smaller cases in the First Judicial District route through compulsory arbitration — a faster, less formal hearing before attorney panels, with appeal rights preserved. ‘Court’ for many cases means this, not a jury.
- What forces trial: genuinely disputed liability, valuation gulfs, or insurer strategy — and preparing every case as if trial is coming is what makes it rarely necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
If my case does go to trial, what’s actually required of me?
Preparation sessions, your testimony about your own life and injuries, and presence — with counsel carrying the legal work. Clients routinely report it was less terrible than feared.
Can I refuse to ever go to court and just take whatever’s offered?
You can — knowing that insurers price that posture. The better path: prepare as if willing, decide each offer on merits.
What does hiring you cost?
No attorney’s fee unless we recover; percentage and cost handling are in the written fee agreement. Consultations are free.
Questions about your situation? Call (215) 464-4600 or contact us online — free, confidential consultations, contingency-fee representation.