Settlement outside of court
Information
Most cases do not go to trial. Rather, parties agree to a settlement where they negotiate an agreement to resolve the issues in their case before the trial. This can save time, money, and manage risk. One way to do that is to negotiate between themselves, with or without the help of a mediator or a third person to help them reach a compromise. After parties reach an agreement, they can create a contract between themselves (often called a "mutual release and settlement agreement") and dismiss the case, or prepare paperwork to resolve their case and turn that agreement into a court order or judgment.
- What if we settle? from Washington State Courts
- Washington State Divorce: How to Settle Outside of Court from Navigate Law Group has tips about negotiating and mediation
- Get Your Settlement in Writing from Nolo.com
- Advantages of Settling a Personal Injury Case from AllLaw
Settlement conferences
Information
Settlement conferences provide an opportunity for parties to settle their case before going to trial. These meetings are scheduled with a judicial officer who can help resolve the case. Superior Court Local Rule LCR 40 “Assignment of Cases” and Superior Court Local Rule LCR 0.6 "Family Court" have information about settlement conferences in civil and family law cases.
- Getting Ready for a Settlement Conference from Washington LawHelp
- Washington State Divorce: How to Settle Outside of Court from Navigate Law Group has information about settlement conferences
Forms and instructions
- Family Law Settlement Conferences from the Superior Court Clerk's Office explains the settlement process and includes forms
Free eBook about representing yourself in court
How to find the eBook about representing yourself in court
Chapter 6 pertains to settlement