What Is a Legal Claim?
Since these cases can be complex, understanding how the legal claim process works is essential. A legal claim is a formal request for compensation or relief when someone suffers harm due to another party’s negligence. In personal injury cases, the injured individual files a claim against the responsible party, which can be a person, business, or insurance company.
Who Are the Plaintiff and Defendant?
Every legal claim involves two key parties:
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Plaintiff – The person or party filing the claim. In personal injury cases, this is the injured individual seeking compensation. Fielding Law represents plaintiffs harmed by negligence.
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Defendant – The person, business, or entity being sued. The plaintiff holds this party responsible for the harm they suffered.
Since personal injury claims often involve large insurance companies, having strong legal representation can make a significant difference.
Understanding the Burden of Proof
In personal injury cases, the burden of proof falls on the plaintiff. They must show that the defendant’s actions directly caused their injuries. Unlike criminal cases, where guilt must be proven “beyond a reasonable doubt,” civil cases rely on a preponderance of the evidence. This means the plaintiff must demonstrate that it is more likely than not that the defendant is responsible.
Key Elements of a Legal Claim
To build a strong case, the plaintiff must prove four essential elements:
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Duty of Care – The defendant had a legal obligation to act responsibly.
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Breach of Duty – The defendant failed to meet that obligation.
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Causation – The defendant’s actions directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
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Damages – The plaintiff suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm.
Each of these elements plays a crucial role in proving negligence. Without them, a legal claim may not succeed.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of personal injury claims may seek different types of compensation, including:
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Medical expenses – Covers hospital bills, surgeries, and ongoing treatment.
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Lost wages – Reimburses income lost due to injury recovery.
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Pain and suffering – Accounts for emotional and physical distress.
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Property damage – Pays for repairs or replacements if property was damaged.
Since every case is different, the amount of compensation varies based on the severity of the injuries and other factors.
Why Hire Fielding Law
Navigating the legal claim process alone can feel overwhelming. Fielding Law provides experienced legal representation to help injury victims secure the compensation they deserve. Our team will guide you through every step, ensuring your case is handled with care and expertise. Contact us at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation today.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.
