If you’ve been injured in an accident in Suffolk County, NY, and are pursuing a personal injury claim, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Between doctor visits, mounting bills, and ongoing pain, adding legal procedures to the mix can feel like too much to handle.
At Plaintiffs Litigation Funding (PLF), we work with injury victims every day who are waiting on the outcome of their lawsuits to get the compensation they deserve. This guide will walk you through the personal injury lawsuit process in Suffolk County — so you know what to expect and how to stay financially afloat while your case is pending.
Step 1: Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
After an injury — whether from a car accident, slip and fall, or another incident — your first priority should be your health. Seeking immediate medical attention not only ensures your well-being but also creates essential documentation for your legal claim.
Step 2: Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
Suffolk County is home to many experienced personal injury lawyers. A good attorney will evaluate your case, file the necessary paperwork, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed. You’ll typically work on a contingency basis — meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
Step 3: File the Lawsuit
Your attorney will begin by filing a complaint in the appropriate Suffolk County court. This formally initiates the lawsuit and notifies the defendant (the person or company you’re suing) of your claim. In Suffolk County, this typically happens at the Supreme Court located in Riverhead, the county seat.
Step 4: Discovery and Investigation
Next comes the discovery phase, where both sides exchange information and evidence. This may include:
- Medical records
- Police reports
- Witness testimony
- Depositions
This step can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case.
Step 5: Settlement Negotiations or Trial
Many personal injury cases settle out of court. Your attorney will work to secure a fair settlement that compensates you for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If a settlement can’t be reached, your case will go to trial. This process can take months or even years, depending on the court’s schedule and the specifics of your case.
The Waiting Game: How PLF Can Help
Unfortunately, while your case progresses through the legal system, life doesn’t stop. Rent is still due. Medical bills pile up. And if you’re unable to work, the financial pressure can be immense.
That’s where PLF comes in.
We provide non-recourse pre-settlement funding to personal injury plaintiffs in Suffolk County and across New York. This means:
- You can receive a cash advance on your expected settlement.
- You only repay us if you win or settle your case.
- There’s no risk to you — if you lose, you owe us nothing.
Our team works directly with your attorney to quickly assess your case and get you the financial support you need — often within 24-48 hours of approval.
In Conclusion
Navigating a personal injury lawsuit in Suffolk County can be a long and stressful process. But with the right legal support and financial resources in place, you don’t have to go it alone.
If you’re waiting on a personal injury settlement and need cash now, Plaintiffs Litigation Funding is here to help. Apply today or call us to learn more about how pre-settlement funding can give you peace of mind while you focus on healing.