A personal injury case usually begins with a notice of legal representation from your attorney. This is done prior to filing a lawsuit in order to give the liable party an opportunity to discuss settlement options. This is one of the most valuable services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Having a great deal of experience negotiating the value of a personal injury case, a personal injury lawyer will be able to calculate an appropriate dollar amount which the liable party should be held to pay. This is why most personal injury cases are settled out of court.