This is the next post in our series of articles on the handling of slip and fall cases in Hartford, Connecticut. Our last article discussed the importance of discovery in premises liability cases. It is important to understand that, contrary to what is portrayed in popular media, trials are not won through last minute “surprise” evidence. Instead, such matters are won through the presentation of evidence which was collected during the discovery process. The importance of discovery is just one reason why it is important to retain an attorney who is experienced in handling such matters. In this article we will discuss another important topic – the handling of trials in cases where the victim fell on someone else’s property. If you or a loved one have been injured then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
We have previously discussed the handling of trials involving motorcycle accidents. Many of these same concepts apply to cases involving a fall. The first step in the process is the selection of a jury. A pool of potential jurors will be gathered from our local community. The attorneys for each side will be able to ask questions of the potential jurors. Counsel for each side will be given a number of challenges which they may use to remove potential jurors from the pool. It is important to understand that jurors may not be removed for issues which involve ethnicity, religion, gender, etc. The Judge will also ask questions of the potential jurors and, if it is clear that a potential juror cannot be impartial, may remove them from the pool. Once jury selection is complete then the jury will be empaneled and the process may begin.
Each side will make an opening statement. This is not a time for either side to argue their case. Instead, opening statements are a time where each side may tell the jurors of the evidence which will be presented and the relief that will be requested at the close of evidence. After opening statements the Plaintiff will present their witnesses and evidence. The defendant(s) will then present their case. The Plaintiff can then respond with rebuttal evidence. The Plaintiff may not use rebuttal to make new arguments. Instead, this time in the trial may only be used to directly respond to claims which have been made by any of the defendants. Upon the close of evidence the attorneys for all sides will make closing arguments to the jury. The jurors will deliberate and issue a verdict. This verdict will include the jurors’ decision regarding liability, comparative fault, and the determination of damages.
The handling of trials can quickly become complicated. The Court will enforce the rules of evidence and procedure. If these rules are not properly followed then the jurors may not be permitted to hear evidence which is vital to the case. By retaining an attorney who is familiar with our state’s rules of evidence and civil procedure, you help to ensure that the jury receives a full picture of what happened.
If you or a family member have been hurt in a fall then contact our office today to speak with a Hartford injury lawyer. Our firm has been serving the greater area for decades and we take great pride in the level of service we provide. We understand the importance of your situation and we will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to speak with an attorney. We also service the Connecticut areas of Wethersfield, New Britain, Bristol, Rocky Hill, West Hartford, East Hartford, Glastonbury, and Manchester, as well as the Middlesex County cities of Middletown and Cromwell.
