We attorneys take certain things for granted in a lawsuit; for example, we know there is a difference between the truth and the provable truth. We also know that even the most simple case takes a lot longer to resolve than most laypersons can imagine. For this reason, it is critical that the aggrieved person maintain a log or journal which chronicles important issues, i.e., conversations which you had with the other party or witnesses to an occurrence; dates/types of treatment and names of medical providers; pain/discomfort and activities you either can not do or can only do on a limited basis; days missed from work or school; other out-of-pocket expenses such as prescription medications, public transportation, etc.; inability to sleep; and the impact which an incident/injury has had on your emotional and mental well-being.
It is not unusual for a trial to take place 3-5 years after an occurrence and the log/journal will be invaluable in helping you and your attorney reconstruct for the jury how the incident changed your life.