It is well known within the legal world that most cases settle before they ever get to trial. Generally, less than 3% of civil cases reach a trial verdict. So, around 97% of cases are resolved by means other than trial. This means that, in most cases, parties will reach a settlement agreement at some point in the process.
At what point do most cases settle? The answer to this question depends on the type of case, the parties involved, and the amount of time and money each side is willing to invest in the case. Generally, the earlier the parties can reach an agreement, the better.
For example, in personal injury cases, the parties may reach a settlement agreement before the case even goes to court. This is often the best outcome for both parties, as it avoids the costs and risks associated with a trial. The parties may also reach a settlement agreement after the case has gone to court, but before a verdict is reached. This is known as a “pre-verdict settlement.”
In other types of cases, such as contract disputes, the parties may reach a settlement agreement at any point in the process. The parties may agree to settle before filing a lawsuit, after filing a lawsuit, or even after a trial has begun. The parties may also agree to settle after a verdict has been reached, but before the judge has issued a judgment.
The timing of a settlement agreement can also depend on the parties’ goals. For example, if one party is seeking a quick resolution, they may be willing to settle earlier in the process. On the other hand, if one party is seeking a larger settlement amount, they may be willing to wait until later in the process to reach an agreement.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “At what point do most cases settle?” depends on the type of case, the parties involved, and the goals of each side. Generally, the earlier the parties can reach an agreement, the better. However, it is important to remember that each case is unique and the timing of a settlement agreement can vary greatly.
