Quick Answer: What is a Bifurcated Trial?

A bifurcated trial in New York personal injury law is a court procedure that splits a lawsuit into two separate phases:

  1. Phase 1 (Liability): The jury decides who was at fault for the accident.
  2. Phase 2 (Damages): If the defendant is found liable, a second phase determines the financial compensation owed for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Facing a Complex Trial or Personal Injury Lawsuit in Staten Island?
Our experienced trial attorneys guide injury victims through every step of court proceedings.
Speak With a Trial Lawyer →

How Bifurcated Trials Work in New York Courts

In New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR), judges frequently order bifurcated trials in personal injury cases to encourage settlements and save court resources. If the jury finds that the defendant was not negligent during Phase 1, the trial ends immediately, and Phase 2 (damages) is unnecessary.

However, unified trials (where liability and damages are presented together) may be requested if proving the severity of the injury is required to prove that the accident occurred in the first place.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Trial Bifurcation

Understanding how bifurcation impacts your case is critical when negotiating or preparing for trial:

  • Faster Liability Verdicts: Juries can focus strictly on liability evidence without getting bogged down in complex medical records initially.
  • Settlement Leverage: A victory in Phase 1 often forces insurance carriers to offer a fair settlement before entering Phase 2.
  • Unified Exceptions: In cases involving severe brain injuries or complex medical conditions, establishing how the injury occurred may require medical testimony during the liability phase.

Navigating court procedures and trial strategies requires seasoned litigation experience. If you were injured in a serious crash, consult an aggressive Staten Island car accident attorney at Minchew & Santner, LLP to protect your rights.

Questions About Your Staten Island Injury Case?

Contact Minchew & Santner, LLP today for a free, confidential case evaluation.

Call (718) 727-7700 or visit our Contact Page to get started.