Gun control is an ongoing issue. Some people are pushing for stricter laws regarding gun ownership while others are intent on taking firearms away from all civilians. In truth, disarming law-abiding citizens and taking away their rights to protect themselves isn’t the answer. Keeping guns out of the hands of wrongdoers and ensuring those responsible for gun violence are held accountable is the solution. If you or a loved one is a victim of firearm misuse, suing because of gun violence could help you gain closure and compensation for the resulting injuries and losses.

Understanding the Process of Suing for Gun Violence

If you want to sue someone for gun violence, your first priority should be speaking with an attorney. An attorney can help you build your case and determine which types of damages and how much compensation to pursue. Each case is different. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to sue for wrongful death, personal injury, premises liability, or property damage among other aspects.

Your attorney can also help you determine who is responsible for your injuries or losses. Though the actual shooter would be an obvious choice, that person may not be solely responsible. Your attorney may advise you to sue those who allowed the gun to fall into the shooter’s hands because they failed to follow proper protocol.

If your injuries happened in a public place, you may be able to sue the owners or managers of that property for inadequate security or other contributing factors. Property owners and managers have a responsibility to keep visitors safe. If they fail to do so, they may be deemed partially accountable for your injuries. It may even be possible to sue legislators though pursuing that route is particularly complicated.

Gathering Evidence

After handing your case over to an attorney, he or she will gather as much evidence as possible to strengthen it. That includes obtaining witness statements, police reports, medical records, and other relevant information. Numerous details could come into play here, but your attorney will know exactly what to look for and how to use it to build your case against the defendants. With ample evidence in hand, your attorney will file the lawsuit, and the defendants will be notified accordingly. Your attorney and the defendants’ legal representatives will then exchange information and proceed from there.

Pretrial Motions and Negotiations

Pretrial motions and possible negotiations will then take place. Pretrial motions are formal requests for the court to make decisions about your case before going to trial. They might include the defendants’ legal representatives requesting that the case be dismissed or that certain evidence be excluded during the trial. The court will hold hearings to consider those motions and determine whether to grant or deny them. On the other hand, the defendants may concede that they’re responsible and offer a settlement. If that’s the case, negotiations will ensue to ensure you get fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Resolving Your Gun Violence Case

Many cases like these are settled out of court, but some ultimately go to trial. Either way, your attorney will work to ensure your rights are upheld and justice is served. Along the way, he or she will provide guidance and advice while working toward the best possible outcome and getting the resolution and compensation you deserve.