Most people do not want to relive the details of accidents that forever changed their lives by taking their claims to court. In Hawaii, residents and island visitors have alternative dispute resolution options that may help them resolve their cases without appearing before judges and juries.
Learn About Alternatives To Going To Trial
You have many options when seeking compensation for losses suffered due to medical malpractice or a personal injury accident. Let the attorneys at the Honolulu law firm of Cronin, Fried, Sekiya, Kekina & Fairbanks explain your alternatives and guide you to a successful recovery for your injury claim.
- Mediation: Most of the larger cases in Hawaii go through mediation. This process involves the parties working together to reach a settlement. A neutral mediator facilitates those discussions. Judges commonly require mediation during the course of a lawsuit.
- Arbitration: Arbitration is similar to a trial, but involves less stringent rules of evidence and is usually much less costly and time-consuming. Personal injury cases in Hawaii with potential values of $150,000 or less go through the Court Annexed Arbitration Program (CAAP). This nonbinding arbitration program allows many cases to be resolved without going to trial. An independent arbitrator (usually a lawyer) serves as “judge and jury,” rendering a nonbinding decision. Arbitration is frequently used for certain insurance claims such as uninsured motorist claims.
Our lawyers all have extensive experience guiding Hawaii residents and island visitors through mediation and arbitration. Let us explain what each alternative entails so that you can make an informed decision about how you wish to have your claim resolved.
Providing You With Assistance No Matter Your Circumstances
Of course, some personal injury claims cannot be settled or resolved amicably. Our lawyers prepare all of our cases as if we were going to court and, if necessary, will aggressively pursue your rights before a judge and jury to obtain a successful outcome for you. Whichever route your case takes, the legal team at Cronin, Fried, Sekiya, Kekina & Fairbanks will be by your side every step of the way.
To schedule a free preliminary case evaluation, call us in Honolulu at 808-524-1433 or toll free at 800-227-8601. You may also send us an email. We will educate you about your options for the help you need.