Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
To talk with a lawyer call (770) 901-2666
Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
To talk with a lawyer call (770) 901-2666

Distinguished Georgia Trial Attorneys

Five Common Challenges Crime Victims Face in Civil Lawsuits

On Behalf of | Jan 28, 2025 | Firm News

For crime victims seeking justice beyond the criminal system, filing a civil lawsuit can be an empowering way to hold offenders accountable and secure financial compensation. While these cases provide a path to recovery, they often come with unique challenges that victims should be prepared for as they navigate the system. At Isenberg & Hewitt, we understand the difficulties our clients face and are dedicated to skillfully guiding them through every step of the process.

Emotional Toll

Reliving traumatic experiences can be one of the most challenging aspects of pursuing a civil lawsuit. Victims are often required to recount painful details multiple times during depositions, mediations and potentially in court. To help manage this, we recommend working with therapists or counselors specializing in trauma recovery. It is also helpful to hire a law firm that is experienced in these emotionally fraught cases, like Isenberg & Hewitt. Our team works closely with clients to ensure they are prepared and supported throughout this emotional process.

Length of the Legal Process

Civil lawsuits can take months to years to resolve, depending on the case’s complexity. Delays can occur due to procedural problems, discovery timelines or court backlogs. This long timeframe can be frustrating for victims looking to move forward with their lives. The Isenberg & Hewitt team focuses on efficient case management and keeps our clients informed about the progress of their cases at every stage so they’re never left wondering.

Gathering Evidence

Proving liability in a civil case requires compelling evidence, which can be challenging, especially in cases involving crime scenes that may have been disturbed or poorly documented. However, if there has been a criminal case for this crime, the evidence used in that trial can also be used in a civil lawsuit. The Isenberg & Hewitt team saw this occur in the McDonald’s lawsuit filed in March of 2023. Our firm has extensive experience conducting thorough investigations and collaborating with experts to build strong cases for our clients.

Determining Financial Recovery

While a civil lawsuit aims to secure financial compensation, calculating damages can be complex. Victims may be entitled to economic compensation (e.g., medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering, emotional distress). However, the defense may attempt to downplay the extent of these damages. The Isenberg & Hewitt team is skilled at valuing claims accurately and fighting to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

In many cases, insurance companies represent the defendant. These companies often aim to minimize payouts, employing tactics such as denying liability, offering low settlements or dragging out negotiations. As experienced civil attorneys, the Isenberg & Hewitt team knows how to counter these strategies and negotiate from a position of strength to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients.

Despite these challenges, civil lawsuits can be a powerful tool for achieving justice and providing victims with the closure needed to move on with their lives. Civil lawsuits not only provide financial relief but also send a strong message that wrongful acts have consequences. At Isenberg & Hewitt, we are committed to standing by crime victims, helping them overcome these obstacles and guiding them toward a better future.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation if you or a loved one is considering a civil lawsuit. Together, we can navigate the challenges and help you seek the justice you deserve.

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