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People or entities involved in personal injury claims are often concerned with whether their proceedings will be part of a public record. Claims may involve investigations into companies or properties, and having sensitive information released to the public may pose a threat to a business’s reputation and future. In this blog post, our legal team addresses what aspects of a personal injury settlement are public record.

Are Personal Injury Settlements Public Record?

The initial route for most people to pursue compensation for a personal injury is settlement negotiations. These negotiations are entirely confidential. Because most personal injury claims are settled outside of court, they are not public record. On top of maintaining confidentiality, settlement negotiations are often preferable because they are less costly and stressful than going to trial.

If these negotiations are successful, the value of the decided-upon settlement will typically be confidential. To ensure this is the case, any involved party can request a confidentiality agreement as part of the final settlement.

What If I Take My Case To Trial?

If parties cannot agree on a settlement amongst themselves, the claim will go to a court ruling. Once the ruling goes to court, the proceedings become public record. Arguments are presented by both parties, as well as witness testimonies of the accident. Altogether, this creates a more transparent understanding of the incident but also leads to private and perhaps sensitive information being accessible to the public.

What’s Best For My Case?

Whether it is better to accept a settlement or go to trial is case-by-case. The best thing you can do for your case is to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks of each form of dispute resolution and how it may affect any potential outcome. By consulting with a knowledgeable professional, you can maximize your chances of getting the fair compensation you deserve.

Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer Who Values Your Privacy

The team of dedicated personal injury lawyers at Lowenthal & Abrams specialize in advocating for individuals who have been harmed by other people’s reckless acts. With years of experience and a deep commitment to seeking justice, we are here to guide you through the civil claims process. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve in a way that positions you to move forward with your life. Call Lowenthal & Abrams today to schedule a free consultation for more information.