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What is the difference between a trial lawyer and a litigator?

10/26/2020
Personal Injury
BY

Personal trial lawyer

At first glance, a trial lawyer and a litigator might seem like the same thing. However, there are critical differences between the experience these two types of attorneys can bring to your case.

If you are looking for a Tallahassee personal injury lawyer, it is a good idea to understand the difference between a trial lawyer and a litigator so you can choose the right legal advocate to meet your needs.

Florida Trial Lawyers and Litigators May Approach Cases from Different Angles

Trial lawyers and litigators are attorneys who provide representation for clients during lawsuits. But they may approach your case in very different ways.

With the focus on what happens in the courtroom, a trial lawyer sometimes starts with the closing statement that could be made to persuade a jury or judge and work backward from there. Trial lawyers may be looking for significant factual or emotional issues and figure out how to build a case to the critical moment of decision.

By contrast, a litigator is more likely to approach the case in the chronological order in which the case will proceed. A Tallahassee personal injury lawyer who is a litigator may often work to reach a successful settlement to achieve objectives without the delays and uncertainties of a trial.

Litigators in Tallahassee Have Experience Managing Cases From Start to Finish

There is a lot more to a legal case than the arguments you hear in the courtroom. An experienced litigator understands how to make the most of each step in the process, including:

  • Investigating the facts
  • Researching the legal precedent
  • Corresponding with other attorneys to gain information
  • Writing briefs and other documents to argue the case
  • Negotiation to arrange the most favorable terms
  • Preliminary proceedings in court such as making and arguing motions

At any point in the proceedings, a Tallahassee personal injury lawyer knows that they may receive an offer to settle the case. The better job they do in laying the case’s groundwork, the more attractive that offer is likely to be.

Trial Lawyers in Florida Understand How to Persuade the Judge and Jury

Trial lawyers focus their attention like a laser on a single aspect of a case – the trial itself. A litigator may be trying to score victories in small steps from the very beginning; the trial attorney is saving everything for the big day in court. Trial lawyers know how to deliver the opening statement, select the best possible jury, cross-examine witnesses, interact with the judge, and render the knock-out punch in the closing argument.

When a trial lawyer has a reputation for presenting excellent cases and winning at trial, insurance companies and litigants are more likely to offer a generous settlement. So, with either approach, a Tallahassee personal injury attorney may be able to obtain full and fair compensation for their clients.

Work with a Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyer Who Has Experience as a Litigator and Trial Attorney

So, do you want a Tallahassee personal injury lawyer who is a litigator or a trial attorney? Ideally, you should work with a firm that can provide the advantages of both approaches.

At Searcy Denney, we strive to take advantage of every opportunity to make the most of your attributes and build a solid case designed to prevail in court. To learn more about how we could help in your situation, call 888-549-7011 or contact us online.

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