If your Florida personal injury attorney decides that your only recourse for making recovery on your personal injury claim is a lawsuit, you might be intimidated by the prospect of actually appearing in court and worry about what to expect.

The good news is that trials follow a very specific format, and neither you nor your Florida personal injury attorney should be surprised by anything when the trial actually occurs.

Trials begin when the presiding judge calls the attorneys, their clients, and the potential jurors to the courtroom. Attorneys from both sides will have a chance to engage in what is called “voir dire” where they interview potential jurors to try to screen out jurors whose biases might compromise a fair trial. A jury of six to eight people is selected.

Then, attorneys will have a chance to make their opening statements. These statements do not present any evidence or arguments; rather, they outline the general conclusions that each attorney will try to prove during the course of the trial.

Following this, attorneys will begin calling witnesses for direct examination. Witnesses on your side will testify about your injury and its effect on your life. They might include family members, friends, coworkers, and your doctor.

After each examination, the attorney from the other side will cross-examine each witness, asking clarifying questions or trying to find flaws in their testimony.

An experienced Florida personal injury attorney will coach you through a trial long before it comes time to step in the courtroom, and he will know how to get you the damages you deserve. Call John Fagan today for a free initial consultation.