How Long Will My Case Take?
Honest, realistic timelines for civil lawsuits in Oklahoma. Every case is different, but these ranges reflect typical experience.
One of the first questions every client asks — and one of the hardest for attorneys to answer precisely. The timeline depends on the type of case, the court, the number of parties, the complexity of discovery, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. The ranges below are based on typical civil litigation in Oklahoma courts and the Western District of Oklahoma federal court.
Timeline by Case Type
Personal Injury (Auto)
Most settle after treatment concludes. Complex cases with surgery take longer.
Personal Injury (Premises/Products)
Expert discovery (engineers, medical) extends the timeline.
Employment Discrimination
Includes EEOC exhaustion period (4–8 months typically). Federal cases trend longer.
Civil Rights (§ 1983)
Qualified immunity motions add time. Federal docket dependent.
Breach of Contract
Straightforward cases settle faster. Complex commercial disputes can take years.
Wrongful Death
Emotionally and factually complex. Often involves multiple defendants.
Trucking Accident
Significant document discovery (logs, maintenance, FMCSA records).
Why Cases Take Longer Than Expected
Discovery disputes
When the other side does not produce documents or answers, your attorney may need to file a motion to compel — adding weeks or months.
Court congestion
Oklahoma state courts and the Western District carry heavy dockets. Trial dates may be set months or over a year out.
Expert witness scheduling
Medical, engineering, and economic experts have their own schedules. Depositions may need coordination across multiple calendars.
Multiple defendants
Each additional party adds complexity, cross-claims, and scheduling conflicts.
Insurance company delay
Some insurers use delay as a negotiation tactic. Your attorney may need to push toward trial to force a fair evaluation.
What You Can Do to Help
Honest Advice
A fast result is not always a good result. Cases that settle too early often leave money on the table. Your attorney's job is to maximize your recovery, and that sometimes means being patient.
Questions About Your Legal Matter?
These resources provide general information. For guidance specific to your situation, contact Addison Law Firm.
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