The math behind every settlement decision
Every settlement decision is a math problem: the offered amount today versus the expected value of trial after costs, fees, time, and risk. A $200,000 offer beats a 50% chance at $300,000 if your attorney is honest about your trial risk and your tolerance for it.
When trial makes sense
When liability is clear, damages are well-documented, the insurer's offer is meaningfully below the case's realistic trial value, and your attorney has a strong recent trial record in similar cases.
When settlement makes sense
When liability is contested, when the offer is within range of a likely trial outcome, when the plaintiff's emotional capacity for trial is limited, or when the policy limits cap your recovery anyway.
Mediation as the middle path
Most cases resolve at mediation — a confidential meeting with a neutral mediator (usually a retired judge) who shuttles between the sides. A skilled mediator can close gaps that direct negotiation could not.