My lawyer and the defense lawyer went in and out together, as well as individually to see the judge about 5x. I met the judge once so he could examine my wrist.

The judge said it'd be hard to get loss of income since I was on SSD during the accident. And just because I planned on going back to work in Sept of '06, it's my word against what a jury could think about people taking advantage of Disability. Plus, since my life is now an open book, I have quite a few new surgeries in my future, with no promise I'll ever work again. OK, I get that.

So with that scenario almost out of the suit, I'd get pain and suffering and then some other money. The judge said an amount in a range, far less than we expected. I'd still have to pay the lawyer 30% and pay back my medical bills.

If I go to jury, it'll be in 8 months -one year. It's a toss how the jury will react. They tend to hate animal attacks, but, it's still like *Deal or No Deal*. I can accept what the judge/defense attorney offer or take my chances that I may even get less with a jury. Or more, but it's a chance I take. If it's lousy weather or I get 12 dorks who want to go home and not spend a few days making little money, I may lose a lot. Or win more. Plus, if my surgeon takes the stand, we have to pay him at least $5000. So costs add up, regardless.

It's so stressful. I feel like I'm the victim again. The judge totally says that it's an injustice not to feel safe and secure in your own backyard. Although, as I thought, the dog that attacked me died around Christmas. The youngest dog, who came under the fence also, but didn't touch me, is still there and not a problem.

So, I'll make a life changing decision once I decide what to do. I need to get more of a definite monetary figure, The defense attorney can appeal of course. If I go to court I can't appeal the ruling.

So, once again, I feel defeated. Any opinions? Should I gamble with a jury? I don't want the defense to think they wore me down after 3 years. I know my lawyer wants his share. He deserves it. He's been ready to go for a while and worked hard. We have 5 witnesses ready to testify.

ARGH!

I should have called the media the day it happened. I should have made a huge fuss about it. Yeah, I know, wudda, shudda, cudda.