Overview of the Legal Process 

For many injury victims, navigating the legal process for the first time can feel overwhelming. That’s why the Law Offices of Michelle Choe is committed to making it as straightforward and stress-free as possible. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, Ms. Choe walks you through every stage with transparency, support, and expert guidance. 

Here’s what you can expect. 

Key Stages of a Personal Injury Case 

Every case is different, but most follow a similar path: 

1. Initial Consultation: This is where it all begins. Ms. Choe will meet with you to hear your story, review the events that occurred, and determine whether your case has legal merit. 
2. Case Evaluation & Evidence Gathering: If the case proceeds, Ms. Choe begins collecting the necessary documentation, including medical records, bills, insurance details, photos, witness statements, and other relevant materials. This phase typically takes a few weeks, depending on how quickly providers release records. 
3. Filing the Claim: Once all preliminary evidence is gathered, a formal claim is submitted to the insurance company or opposing party. From there, negotiations often begin. 
4. Settlement Negotiations: In many cases, both parties can reach a fair settlement without going to court. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the other side's willingness to cooperate. 
5. Litigation (If Necessary): If a fair agreement can’t be reached, Ms. Choe will file a lawsuit and take the case into litigation. While this can add more time, sometimes over a year, depending on the court’s schedule, Ms. Choe continues fighting for the best outcome on your behalf. 

What You Need to Get Started 

You don’t need to show up with a stack of paperwork, just some basic details, and Ms. Choe will handle the rest. 

To begin building your case, it helps to have: 

• A statement of the incident and injuries sustained 
• Your insurance information 
• Vehicle information and the driver’s license, if it was an auto accident   
• Any information about the other party, such as their license plate number or contact details, depending on the nature of the incident 
• The dates and locations where you received medical treatment 

Ms. Choe will be responsible for gathering all medical records, bills, and supporting documents. You simply need to share where and when you received treatment, and she’ll handle the rest. 

Please note: If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to report it to the police and your insurance company right away. Even if you only remember a partial plate number or vehicle description, Ms. Choe can investigate and determine the vehicle's owner. She can also use uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to pursue compensation on your behalf if the other driver cannot be found. 

What Might Delay the Process? 

Delays are rare before a case enters litigation. However, once a case moves into the court system, things can slow down significantly. Delays may happen due to the opposing party’s attorney’s schedule, court availability, or other procedural hurdles that are out of the client’s control. These are common and often frustrating challenges that can arise during litigation, even when everything is handled correctly. 

This is one of the key reasons Ms. Choe encourages clients to explore settlement options first. Settlements typically resolve faster, involve less stress, and avoid the unpredictability of courtroom scheduling. While she is fully prepared to litigate when necessary, Ms. Choe always prioritizes her clients' time, well-being, and peace of mind. 

Her proactive and organized approach helps keep your case moving forward efficiently. However, avoiding unnecessary delays through settlement can often be the smartest path forward, especially when fair compensation can still be achieved outside of court. 

Communication Throughout the Case 

Clear, consistent communication is a top priority at the Law Offices of Michelle Choe. Ms. Choe maintains regular contact with her clients, typically checking in at least once a month, and she reaches out more frequently when there are important updates or decisions to be made. 

Beyond legal progress, she takes the time to check in on how clients are feeling, how their recovery is going, and whether their treatment is effective. This personal attention ensures that every client feels supported, not just legally, but personally throughout the process. 

With Ms. Choe, you’ll never be left in the dark about your case. 

Your Role in the Process

While Ms. Choe handles the legal strategy, negotiations, and day-to-day work on your case, you remain in complete control of the major decisions. 

She will always explain your options clearly and recommend what she believes is in your best interest. Still, you have the final say, especially when it comes to decisions such as accepting a settlement or proceeding with a lawsuit. 

Supporting You Every Step of the Way 

At the Law Offices of Michelle Choe, the goal is more than just winning cases. It’s about empowering clients to take control of their recovery and future. Legal matters can be intimidating, especially after an injury that disrupts your health, your finances, and your daily life. That’s why Ms. Choe is committed to being more than just your attorney. She’s your guide, your advocate, and your partner through every step of the legal process. 

Whether your case is resolved in a few short months through a settlement or requires a longer litigation process, Ms. Choe ensures that you always know where your case stands. She takes the time to explain each phase, answer your questions, and provide clear, honest advice so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Her approach is deeply personal. 

Clients often describe working with Ms. Choe as a relief during a difficult time, knowing they have someone in their corner who truly cares about their well-being, not just their case file. That trust and commitment are at the heart of everything she does. 

If you’ve been injured and aren’t sure where to start, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Schedule a consultation with the Law Offices of Michelle Choe today.