What Happens at a Personal Injury Trial in Arizona?

Most personal injury cases settle — either during pre-litigation negotiation or during mediation. But some cases need a trial to get a fair result. If your case is one of them, here’s what the process looks like.

Jury Selection (Voir Dire)

The trial begins with jury selection. Both attorneys question potential jurors about their backgrounds, biases, and attitudes toward personal injury lawsuits. In Maricopa County, personal injury juries typically have 8 members.

This is more important than most people realize. A good trial attorney can identify jurors who are predisposed against injury plaintiffs — and remove them.

Opening Statements

Each side presents their version of the case in summary form. Your attorney tells the jury what happened, how you were injured, and what compensation you’re seeking. The defense attorney previews their arguments.

Plaintiff’s Case

Your attorney presents evidence — your testimony, medical records, expert witnesses, accident reconstruction, and any other evidence supporting your claim. You’ll testify about the accident and how your injuries have affected your life. This is where your pain journal becomes invaluable.

Defense Case

The defense presents their evidence — often an IME doctor who minimizes your injuries, witnesses who challenge your account, and arguments about comparative fault.

Closing Arguments and Verdict

Both sides summarize their case. The jury deliberates and returns a verdict — a dollar amount that represents your total damages. The jury also assigns fault percentages if comparative fault was raised.

Why Trial Readiness Matters Even If You Settle

Insurance companies know which firms actually go to trial and which ones always settle. A firm with a trial record gets better settlements because the threat is credible.

The Law Badgers try cases. That’s why insurance companies take us seriously at the negotiation table. Call (833) DTF-IGHT.