Litigation is the process by which one party takes legal action against another whom he or she contends is liable for some type of damage. This process is time consuming and may last for a number of years before a resolution is obtained either by way of judgment at trial or settlement among the parties.

Lost wages is generally an element of damages recoverable from the defendant under state law. Lost wages is not the same as loss or reduction of future earnings.

The majority of lawsuits are actually settled before going to trial. This may occur shortly after a lawsuit is filed or literally on the steps of the courthouse just before trial.

A structured settlement from a lawsuit is an agreement in which one party agrees to pay a sum of money over a period of time to settle the case. This is sometimes appealing to corporate defendants, such as insurance companies, because they can spread the payments out over time.

The loss of a loved one is a tragic event. No amount of money can ever replace a parent, spouse, or child. But when a family member dies through the fault of another, family members may be compensated for losses, including medical expenses, grief and suffering, and loss of earnings, support, love, affection, and guidance.