If I Don't Like My Insurance Company's Settlement Offer for My Accident Case, Can I Still File A Lawsuit Without a Fairfax Accident Lawyer?

I often tell people that a Fairfax accident lawyer may not be necessary. You can probably obtain a settlement offer without an attorney, but not all offers may cover the full extent of your damages. If you’re unhappy with the offer, you may have to go to court. This is where an accident case turns into a lawsuit, which may necessitate hiring a lawyer. 

Most people need an attorney when taking any serious legal action within or related to the court system. This may be the case if the settlement offer from your insurance company isn’t enough to cover your legitimate damages and the adjuster refuses to budge. You still may not need a lawyer if your lawsuit is seeking damages under $5,000 – it will go to Small Claims Court where lawyers are not allowed. 

For lawsuits seeking damages over $5,000 but less than $25,000, you’ll be dealing with the General District Court. Whether or not you need a lawyer is up to you – the insurance company or another party you are suing may have legal counsel of their own, so you may want to do the same. 

If you’re seeking damages greater than $25,000 your lawsuit will be handled by the Fairfax County Circuit Court or the Circuit Court of the county where the accident took place. These high-stakes lawsuits can become complex and I highly suggest that you retain a Fairfax accident lawyer at this point to protect your rights and guide you through the legal system for personal injury lawsuits. 

If You’re Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit You May Need a Lawyer 

When the settlement offer from the insurance company for your accident case is too low and they just won’t compromise, it may be time to take the matter to court. You may need a lawyer if you couldn’t settle your case on your own and that’s okay – we’re here to help!