What is the difference between a settlement and a verdict?

A settlement and a verdict are both terms used to describe the result of an accident law case in Pennsylvania. The main difference between them is how the outcome is decided. A settlement is an agreement between the plaintiff (the person bringing the lawsuit) and the defendant (the person or company being sued). The plaintiff and defendant will often negotiate to decide the amount of money the plaintiff will receive as compensation for their losses. The settlement agreement is usually written, and both parties will need to sign it before it is finalized. A verdict is the final decision in a lawsuit that is decided by a judge or jury. The judge or jury will hear all of the evidence in the case and render a decision on whether the plaintiff has been harmed and if the defendant is responsible for the harm. If they find in favor of the plaintiff, they will determine the damages the plaintiff is owed. Overall, the main difference between a settlement and a verdict is that a settlement is reached through negotiation between the parties while a verdict is the result of a judge or jury deciding the outcome of the case. In either situation, the plaintiff may receive compensation for their losses.

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