Here’s the full picture behind this week’s explainer, including what “settling at the courtroom door” actually means, and what support looks like if your claim does go the distance.
The Short Answer
The majority of claims are concluded before court attendance becomes necessary. Even where court proceedings are issued, that doesn’t mean every case runs all the way to a final trial, many settle at various points along the way. Sometimes a claim settles “at the courtroom door,” meaning you may need to attend but the case is resolved before you go in, often through the barristers representing each side. If you do need to attend and give evidence, you’ll be supported through the process and represented by a suitable, experienced barrister.
How Often Do Claims Actually Go to Court?
Attending court is understandably one of the most daunting prospects for anyone making a claim, but it’s far from the most common outcome.
“I think for anyone, the mention of attending court is daunting, understandably so. And the majority of claims we are able to conclude prior to that point.”
You can read more about how No Win No Fee Claims work on our No Win No Fee page.
What Happens If Court Proceedings Are Issued?
Issuing court proceedings isn’t the same as heading straight to a final trial. There are several stages along the way where a claim can still be resolved.
“If we’re not able to resolve the claim in the initial stages, and we do commence court action, that’s not to say that all claims are going to go from the issuing of proceedings through to a final trial where the client would need to attend. A lot of claims will settle at the various steps along the way, and we’ll do everything we can to make sure that happens.”
Worried About Going to Court?
Our team can explain what’s likely to happen at each stage of your claim, no cost, no obligation.
Settling “At the Courtroom Door”
Even where a claim doesn’t settle beforehand, that doesn’t always mean a full hearing. Sometimes an agreement is reached on the day itself, before the hearing actually begins.
“Sometimes it settles at the courtroom door. So, notwithstanding you having to attend, you don’t actually go in, and a deal can be done. A way is seen forward, often through the representation of the barristers at the hearing to bring about a conclusion and agreement between the parties.”
If You Do Need to Attend and Give Evidence
In the smaller number of cases that do go further, you won’t be left to face it alone. Preparation and representation are built into the process.
“We’re here to support you with that. We’ll have talked just through it step by step. We will have discussed what you’ll be questioned on, what will happen, the format it will take, and also you’ll have representation at the hearing.”
Representation at the hearing comes from a barrister with relevant experience in the type of claim involved, instructed on your behalf to put your case forward.
“We’ll ensure that a qualified, suitable barrister is there with you that can deal with this claim, that has experience in the area, and we’ll make sure that we fight this to the end if necessary.”
For a broader look at the claims process, see our How Personal Injury Claims Work guide
Think You May Have a Claim?
Get in touch and we’ll explain exactly what to expect at every stage, including if your claim does reach court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. Most claims are concluded before court attendance becomes necessary, and even where proceedings are issued, many claims still settle along the way rather than reaching a final trial.
It means an agreement is reached on the day of the hearing, often through the barristers representing each side, so you may need to attend but the case is resolved before the hearing itself begins.
You’ll be talked through the process step by step, including what you’re likely to be questioned on and the format of the hearing, and you’ll have representation from a qualified, experienced barrister.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Speak to our team today and find out exactly where you stand.
Conclusion
Court is far less common an outcome than most people assume, and even where it becomes part of the process, there are opportunities to resolve things along the way, including right up to the courtroom door. If your claim does need to go further, you’ll be prepared and represented every step of the way.