It depends. We have handled cases that resolved within weeks, and other cases that took years. Typically, the most important factor is whether the at-fault defendant or insurance company is willing to accept full responsibility for the wrongdoer’s actions. If an at-fault person—such as a negligent driver who causes an accident—or insurance company is willing to take full responsibility, the case can sometimes be resolved quickly. If the defendant tries to dodge responsibility, the case can take longer. In some cases, we have had to prove that the person who caused the injury was an employee of a business. For example, in some cases where we have represented victims of sexual assault, we have had to prove the person was an employee and not an independent contractor. That can require an in-depth investigation which means considerable time.
At Butler Kahn, we have found that the best way to resolve a case is to prepare it for the long haul—i.e., prepare to try the case in front of a jury. Experience has taught us that at-fault defendants and insurance companies are much more willing to come to terms with our clients if they know that we are ready and willing to take the case to trial.
