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How Long Does a La Porte Refinery Explosion Lawsuit Take?

How long a La Porte refinery explosion lawsuit takes depends on the complexity of the case, the evidence to support the case, settlement negotiations, and whether a trial is needed.

Outside of these factors, the legal representation of the plaintiff in a La Porte refinery explosion can impact the timeline for case resolution. 

The Time It Takes to File a Petition Can Affect the Timeline for a La Porte Refinery Explosion Lawsuit

A personal injury lawyer can file a lawsuit for a La Porte refinery explosion in accordance with the statute of limitations that applies to their client’s case.

Per Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, for some La Porte refinery explosion lawsuits, the statute of limitations is two years. Those who miss the deadline can lose the right to sue. 

After a lawsuit is filed, an attorney can investigate the explosion and pursue evidence. In certain instances, they can also seek a court order that addresses the preservation of evidence. 

Evidence Can Play a Role in the Time It Takes to Resolve a La Porte Refinery Explosion Lawsuit

Personal injury attorneys will search extensively for evidence to use when they argue their case for compensatory damages. Examples of evidence used in La Porte refinery explosion lawsuits include:

  • Alarm logs
  • Maintenance and inspection records
  • Agency reports
  • Training records
  • Distributed control system (DCS) records
  • Damaged physical components from the explosion
  • Video footage of the explosion
  • Witness statements
  • Incident reports

If an attorney has relevant evidence that shows negligence, a liable party or their insurance company can be increasingly inclined to offer a reasonable settlement offer prior to trial. 

Settlement Negotiations Can Dictate How Long a La Porte Refinery Explosion Lawsuit Takes

In a La Porte refinery explosion lawsuit, a liable party or their insurance company can dispute liability, which can prolong settlement negotiations.

Either of these parties can offer a settlement that only covers a portion of the plaintiff’s losses. In this scenario, the plaintiff’s lawyer may continue to try to negotiate an agreement.

If no settlement is reached, the lawyer is likely to advise their client to bring their case to trial and argue as to why damages are warranted to a judge or jury. 

How Long It Can Take to Get a Trial Date Can Determine the Timeline for Resolving a La Porte Refinery Explosion Lawsuit 

Even if you want to take your La Porte refinery explosion lawsuit to trial, the time it takes to get a trial date will be based on court backlogs and other factors.

Depending on the situation, it can take months or longer before you will have the opportunity to explain to a judge or jury why the defendant should pay compensatory damages. 

Your lawyer can engage in settlement negotiations on your behalf as you await your trial date. If an offer is made, you can review it with your lawyer before you decide on it. 

Who You Choose as Your Legal Representation Can Influence Your La Porte Refinery Explosion Lawsuit’s Timeline

As you choose an attorney, consider their experience handling cases similar to yours, including how they investigate claims, negotiate settlements, and help their clients get ready for trial. 

In addition, search for an experienced attorney who can help you identify and address legal or procedural issues that can affect the progress of your case.