Dear Rosa,

Regarding your questions: We have not won the entire case yet, only part of it. And yes, you must still attend the defense doctor appointment.

Here is what the August 20 court order means. The judge ruled conclusively that the van driver was negligent and caused the collision. The defendant cannot argue you caused the crash. However, a jury must still decide if your later shoulder surgery resulted from this collision and determine the value of all your damages. You still need to prove each medical treatment and lost wage connects to this accident.

**The Settlement Offer**
Defense counsel offered $210,000, expiring September 18. This offer creates a financial risk if rejected. If you reject this offer and the final jury judgment is $210,000 or less, you must pay the defendant’s post-offer taxable costs, estimated between $18,000 and $35,000. You will not be responsible for their attorney fees under this rule.

**Immediate Actions Required**
1. **Records Deadline:** The court stated records of your prior shoulder treatment must be produced by August 28 or they may be excluded. Please sign the provider authorization immediately so we can meet this deadline.
2. **Independent Medical Exam:** You are ordered to attend the examination on September 10 at 9:00 a.m. You must attend and cooperate reasonably. If scheduling conflicts arise, contact me immediately.
3. **Social Media:** Do not delete or alter any photos, messages, or posts regarding your recovery while this lawsuit is pending. You must preserve all relevant content.

**Upcoming Timeline**
Your surgeon’s causation report is due September 12. This document is critical for evaluating the settlement offer because it establishes whether the surgery connects to the crash. We will meet on September 15 to review that report and discuss the decision. The pretrial conference is October 1, and trial begins October 19.

Please call me with any questions about these deadlines or the offer risks.

Sincerely,

[Lawyer Name]