Personal injury legal glossary
Short definitions for terms you may encounter while researching firms, insurance, a claim, or a lawsuit. Definitions are orientation—not advice about a specific matter.
ResponsibilityComparative negligence+
Responsibility allocated among parties; depending on state law, a claimant’s assigned share may affect recovery.
HiringContingency fee+
A fee arrangement that ties the lawyer’s fee to a recovery. Written terms and governing rules vary.
CompensationDamages+
Money or other relief sought for legally recognized harm. Categories and availability depend on the claim and jurisdiction.
Claim processDemand+
A communication that presents a claim, supporting information, and a requested resolution.
Court processDeposition+
Out-of-court testimony given under oath and recorded as part of discovery.
Court processDiscovery+
A formal lawsuit stage in which parties exchange information and obtain evidence under applicable rules.
CompensationEconomic damages+
Claimed financial losses such as qualifying medical costs or lost earnings, subject to proof and applicable law.
ResponsibilityLiability+
Legal responsibility for conduct or harm under the rules that apply to a claim.
CompensationLien+
A claimed legal right to payment from particular property or funds, which may include proceeds from a case.
Claim processMediation+
A process in which a neutral person helps parties discuss possible resolution without deciding the dispute for them.
InsuranceMedPay+
Medical payments coverage that may pay qualifying medical expenses under the terms of an auto policy.
InsurancePIP+
Personal Injury Protection, an auto-insurance coverage available or required in some states and governed by policy and state rules.
DeadlinesStatute of limitations+
A law that sets a filing deadline. The correct deadline depends on jurisdiction, claim, parties, and facts.
InsuranceSubrogation+
A process through which an insurer or benefit plan may seek repayment from another source after paying benefits.
InsuranceUM/UIM+
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, subject to the policy and applicable state law.