Best Medical Malpractice & Negligence Lawyers in Newnan, GA

Personal injury is a legal term that refers to any physical or emotional harm experienced by an individual as a result of an accident. Personal injury law aims to assist individuals who have been involved in accidents for which they are not responsible, safeguarding both their well-being and property in cases of harm caused by another party's negligence. When someone else is deemed liable for the injuries, they may be held accountable for covering medical expenses, pain, suffering, and other related costs. Unlike other legal cases, personal injury claims focus on compensating the injured party for damage inflicted on their body or mind rather than their possessions. Typical damages sought in these cases include medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and any impact on the individual's quality of life.

Personal injury settlements in Georgia are typically NOT subject to taxation, both at the state and federal level. These settlements are viewed as compensation for losses incurred due to another party's wrongful actions and are therefore not classified as income. However, it is important to note that certain factors can influence an individual's financial and tax responsibilities. Specifically, punitive damages or attorney's fees included in a settlement or judgment may be taxable. Individuals receiving personal injury settlements should seek guidance from a qualified accountant or tax attorney to safeguard their financial interests. The Jewkes Firm prioritizes securing optimal settlements for clients but emphasizes the importance of seeking professional advice to avoid inadvertent financial repercussions post-settlement.

In a personal injury case, the deposition involves sworn testimony by the "deponent" (the person being deposed) and documented by a certified court reporter. Depositions typically occur post-response to written discovery requests, though this timing can vary based on the specific circumstances. The outcome following a deposition is not fixed due to the diverse strategies and variables involved in litigation. Following a deposition, possible scenarios include receiving a settlement offer from the defending party or moving toward trial as the next step. Subsequently, there may be a period dedicated to trial preparation where both sides ready their cases for court proceedings. Mediation often follows depositions, involving all parties meeting with a neutral mediator to settle. Regardless of case specifics, having a skilled attorney well-versed in all aspects of litigation is crucial for navigating through trials effectively.

Determining if you have grounds for a personal injury claim involves establishing that another party is legally responsible for the injuries and losses you have suffered. In such cases, the burden of proof lies with you, requiring evidence to demonstrate that your injuries resulted from someone else's negligent or reckless actions.

Personal injury claims are subject to varying time limits, known as "statutes of limitations," which determine the deadline for filing a case and serving the defendant(s) in each state. In Georgia, individuals usually have two (2) years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Seek legal representation promptly as this allows ample time to gather necessary medical documentation, a process that can be time-consuming. Hiring an attorney early also provides them with sufficient time to construct your case and potentially reach a settlement before the statute of limitations expires.