How Long Will My Nursing Home Abuse Case Last?

 Posted on September 29, 2023 in Nursing Home Abuse

Bringing a nursing home abuse case is a serious matter that requires careful consideration and understanding of the legal process. While it is natural to wonder about the duration of legal cases like this, the timeline can vary significantly depending on different factors. If you are looking to pursue a nursing home abuse claim, contact a lawyer to begin the process. Discuss with your attorney how long you may expect the case to last. Experienced counselors have likely seen a wide variety of nursing home abuse claims and may have a better idea of the timeline you can expect from the case.  

Gathering Evidence and Filing a Complaint

The first step in any nursing home abuse case in Illinois is gathering evidence to support your claim. This may mean obtaining medical records, witness testimonies, photographs, or any other relevant evidence. Once the necessary evidence is collected, a complaint is filed against the facility or individual responsible for the abuse. This initial stage can take weeks or even months, depending on the case's complexity and the evidence's availability.

Pretrial Proceedings

After filing the complaint, pretrial proceedings will begin. This stage involves exchanging information, known as discovery, between both parties. This process allows each side to build their case by reviewing documents, taking depositions, and conducting investigations. Pretrial proceedings can last anywhere from a few months to a year as both parties work towards reaching a settlement or preparing for trial. 

Settlement Negotiations

Many nursing home abuse cases are resolved through settlement negotiations, where both parties attempt to reach an agreement without going to trial. Settlement negotiations can occur at any stage of the legal process, and their duration varies depending on the willingness of the parties to compromise. These negotiations can take weeks or months, with the assistance of attorneys representing each side.

What if a Settlement Cannot Be Reached? 

In this case, the case will proceed to trial. The trial itself can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the case's complexity and the number of witnesses involved. After the trial, the judge or jury will deliberate and deliver a verdict. The length of time it takes for a verdict can also vary, and it is important to understand that appeals may follow a trial, potentially extending the case's duration. 

Contact a Chicago Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

For legal representation you can rely on, contact the experienced Cook County nursing home abuse lawyers with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.