When you’re dealing with a legal case, especially a personal injury claim, you’ll hear a lot of legal terms. Two that often confuse people are “litigator” and “trial lawyer.” Many use them interchangeably, but they don’t mean the same thing. Knowing the difference can help you understand your lawyer’s role and what kind of legal strategy may be best for your case.

Both litigators and trial lawyers play important parts in the legal process. They can both represent clients, prepare legal documents, and appear in court. However, the nature of their work, especially when a case moves closer to trial, starts to separate one from the other.

At Lach Injury Law, we believe in giving our clients full clarity. That includes explaining who is working on your case, what they specialize in, and how they can help. Below, we break down the key differences between litigators and trial lawyers so you know what to expect when building your injury claim.

What Does a Litigator Do?

A litigator handles all the legal work that comes before a trial. This includes gathering evidence, researching laws, filing motions, attending hearings, and negotiating with the opposing party. Their job is to manage the lawsuit from start to finish, whether or not it ends up in a courtroom.

In most personal injury cases, litigation is the longest and most involved phase. A litigator prepares the case by investigating the incident, working with medical experts, and gathering records. This work applies to a wide range of cases, including vehicle accidents, slip and fall injuries, or workplace injury claims.

Litigators are also the ones who deal with insurance companies. They send demand letters, handle settlement talks, and push back against unfair offers. Many cases settle during this phase. That’s why litigators must be skilled negotiators—they need to protect your rights without having to go to trial unless necessary.

What Does a Trial Lawyer Do?

A trial lawyer steps in when a case doesn’t settle and needs to go before a judge or jury. Trial lawyers are courtroom advocates. They build arguments, question witnesses, present evidence, and persuade jurors. Their strength lies in storytelling, strategy, and fast thinking under pressure.

Unlike litigators, who work mostly behind the scenes, trial lawyers work in public view. They know how to

simplify complex legal points and explain them clearly to a jury. Their focus is on winning the case in court. They must also be ready for anything—from surprise objections to cross-examination and last-minute evidence challenges.

At Lach Injury Law, we prepare every case as if it may go to trial. That way, if the insurance company won’t settle fairly, we’re ready to move forward. In cases involving serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or wrongful death, this level of readiness can make a huge difference.

Key Differences Between Litigators and Trial Lawyers

While both roles overlap in many ways, here are the major differences that set them apart.

Focus of Work

Litigators handle the preparation and negotiation side of legal cases. They file documents, manage discovery, and work to reach settlements. Trial lawyers focus on courtroom litigation. They step in when a case cannot be resolved outside of court and needs a jury verdict.

Required Skills

Litigators rely on strong writing, organization, and analysis. Trial lawyers need persuasive speaking skills, quick thinking, and courtroom presence. Each role requires a different mindset and approach.

Client Interaction

Litigators often work closely with clients throughout the process. Trial lawyers usually step in when a case escalates. In some firms, the same attorney serves both roles. At Lach Injury Law, we provide full-service support, so clients get continuity from start to finish.

Why This Difference Matters in Personal Injury Law

Understanding who is handling your case and what they bring to the table—can help you feel more confident during the process. If your attorney only has experience with settlements, they may not be prepared to argue in court. That can impact your outcome if negotiations break down.

Some injury cases involve multiple parties or large corporations. These defendants often stall or lowball settlement offers, hoping to avoid public court battles. In situations like defective product claims or premises liability, a seasoned trial lawyer may be the only way to force fair treatment.

Even when your case never reaches trial, having a team that’s ready to take that step can influence settlement outcomes. Insurance companies are more likely to offer a better deal when they know your attorney won’t hesitate to go to court.

How Lach Injury Law Supports You at Every Stage

At our firm, we don’t split your case between unfamiliar hands. From the moment you contact us, we assign a dedicated team that stays with you. Whether your case involves a grocery store accident, workplace injury, or general injury claim, we build it with both settlement and trial in mind.

We know that each case is different. Some require aggressive negotiation. Others call for courtroom strategy. Our team includes litigators and trial lawyers who work together to protect your rights at every turn.

We also stay focused on your needs, not just the legal steps. That means regular communication, honest updates, and personal support. Whether you’re reviewing a medical bill or preparing for testimony, we walk you through it.

Choosing the Right Legal Team

The lawyer you choose should not only understand injury law—they should also have the skill to adapt as your case evolves. Some firms only aim for a quick settlement. Others may push for a trial without trying to resolve things first. At Lach Injury Law, we believe in balance.

We fight for full compensation using every available tool. If that means settling with strong terms, we’re ready. If it means taking your case before a jury, we’ll be fully prepared. Our approach gives clients the best chance at fair results in a system that doesn’t always favor victims.

Before hiring an attorney, ask how they handle cases that don’t settle. Ask if they’ve been to trial, and what kind of support they provide along the way. A good injury attorney should be ready for both paths, not just one.

Talk to a Legal Team That Does Both

Whether your case ends in settlement or goes to court, Lach Injury Law will be with you the entire way. Our firm combines the strengths of experienced litigators and proven trial lawyers to give you the best legal representation in Las Vegas.

From vehicle accidents to slip and fall injuries, we’re known for building strong, strategic cases. We also represent clients in workers’ compensation, wrongful death, and other serious claims throughout Southern Nevada.

To learn more about our approach, visit our about page, explore our blog, or browse helpful resources for injury victims. When you’re ready, contact us to schedule a free consultation.

You deserve a legal team that knows how to fight and when to settle—and we’re ready to help.