How Does Mediation Work In North Carolina Personal Injury Cases?

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of the actions or negligence of others, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit in order to get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, loss of wages, pain and suffering. Every lawsuit filed in a NC civil superior court is required to go through mediation. If a resolution cannot be reached for both sides, the case will proceed to trial.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is where the two parties (plaintiff and defendant) get together prior to a trial to discuss the case and see whether it can be settled. In this process, both groups involved meet with a neutral third-party mediator who facilitates the conversation between both sides and helps them work towards a settlement agreement. The mediator does not have the power to make decisions or impose solutions; their role is to guide the conversation and encourage the parties to find common ground that they can agree on. This is typically the best chance to settle a matter before gearing up for a long and expensive trial.

Mediation is not the same as arbitration. Arbitration usually takes place in an attorney's office in front of a panel of one or three arbitrators. The arbitrator(s) listen to both sides and then make a ruling, much like an informal trial. The ruling of the arbitrator for this type of proceeding is binding in the same way the decision of a judge or jury would be.

Benefits of Mediation

Mediation, as an alternative dispute resolution method, has gained significant traction in North Carolina personal injury cases due to the numerous benefits it provides for all parties involved. This flexible and collaborative process empowers individuals to actively engage in resolving disputes while avoiding the often lengthy and expensive litigation process. By participating in a guided conversation facilitated by a neutral third party, or mediator, parties can work together to find mutually agreeable resolutions that satisfy their interests and needs. The benefits of mediation, such as greater control over the outcome, reduced legal fees, direct communication, and confidentiality, make it an attractive option for those seeking to resolve personal injury disputes in North Carolina.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the key advantages of mediation, exploring how it allows for greater control over the outcome and how it leads to reduced legal fees. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of direct communication between the parties, which fosters understanding and collaboration, as well as the inherent confidentiality of the mediation process that protects sensitive information and ensures privacy. Through these advantages, mediation has become a popular choice for resolving personal injury cases in North Carolina.

Greater Control Over the Outcome

Because mediation involves both sides sitting down and working towards a resolution, it allows both parties to have a direct hand in shaping the outcome of their case, rather than leaving the decision in the hands of a judge or jury. As both sides listen to what is presented, they have a chance to refute and give counterpoints to what the other party is claiming.

Reduced Legal Fees

Mediation is generally less expensive than a trial, as it requires fewer resources and can often be resolved more quickly. Both sides will still have to meet with their lawyers in advance to prepare for meetings and pay the mediator a fee that is set by the NC General Assembly. The cost of expert witnesses and hours for the attorneys to prepare for the trial can be greatly reduced or eliminated in mediation

Direct Communication

When both parties can sit together in a guided conversation and express their concerns and goals for the case, it can lead to a much more satisfactory outcome for both sides. The informal setting of mediation is much less intimidating than a courtroom and that can reduce anxiety and lead to more constructive conversations. It is the mediator’s job to keep the tone of the meeting less confrontational and more productive. Typically, everyone involved in mediation wants a quick and fair resolution so that they can move on and heal from the situation. 

Confidentiality

Mediation is a private process, meaning the details of the case including the terms of the settlement remain confidential. This can be particularly important for parties concerned about their reputation or privacy. The parties involved may be asked to sign a confidentiality agreement as part of the settlement.

Risks of Mediation

Mediation, though an effective alternative to litigation in resolving personal injury disputes in North Carolina, is not without its risks. Before engaging in the mediation process, it is crucial for all parties involved to understand and weigh the potential drawbacks. The risks associated with mediation can impact the ultimate outcome of the case, and in some instances, may even necessitate further legal action. By examining these risks, parties can make informed decisions about whether or not to pursue mediation as a resolution method.

Two significant risks associated with mediation in personal injury cases are the lack of guaranteed resolution and the possibility of settling for less than what might be obtained through litigation. Mediation is a voluntary process, and there is no assurance that the disputing parties will reach an agreement. Consequently, time and resources spent on mediation may ultimately be for naught, leading to further delays in seeking justice. Additionally, the informal nature of mediation and the desire for a swift resolution might result in parties agreeing to settlements that do not adequately compensate them for their injuries and damages. It is essential for parties to consider these risks and assess their willingness to accept the outcomes before entering into mediation.

Resolution is Not Guaranteed

While both parties may try to reach a resolution, mediation does not guarantee that both sides will reach an agreement.  They may still need to go to trial if both sides do not agree to the terms of a settlement.

Possibility of Settling for Less

Because most people are trying to avoid the cost and stress of a trial, there is the risk that the plaintiff might settle for less or the defendant might agree to pay more than what would be awarded if the case had gone to trial. However, there is no way to know what that amount would be without going to trial. This risk highlights the importance of having an experienced personal injury lawyer present during mediation.

Choosing an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

Before deciding whether to pursue legal action against another party for your personal injury claim, it's necessary to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. They can help you evaluate the specific circumstances of your case, explain the pros and cons of each option, and help you decide on the best course of action. A skilled attorney will also be able to represent you during the mediation process, ensuring your interests are protected, that emotions do not overwhelm either side, and that you have the best chance of reaching a fair settlement. That attorney can then continue to represent you in court if mediation is not successful.

Every personal injury case is unique. To have a free consultation with our experienced Charlotte legal team, call Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers today at 704-714-1450. We will work with you to get fair compensation through mediation or a trial in North Carolina.