As usual, rydabent overstates. It varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and in some cases judge to judge.

But also as usual, the few usual suspects who demand specific answers to their "legal" questions are free to consult with a local lawyer. Doubt you'll find anyone to do the work pro bono though, particularly since they are unlikely to help out unpleasant people who just demand to know an answer just because. So be prepared to open your checkbooks.

Be sure to ask what percentage of cases are settled out of court. And of the *tiny* percentage that are settled in court, be sure to ask what percentage have open settlements.

Nah, better to demand unobtainium answers.

-mr. bill