Civil Litigation
Disputes come in all shapes and sizes. Businesses disagree on the terms of a contract. Neighbors argue over a property line. Both drivers in a car accident blame the other person. These issues may be resolved informally with a creative compromise. Other times a court may be required.
Bringing a case to court is at its core a truth-seeking process. In a civil lawsuit you often have an opportunity to review evidence – including documents and sworn testimony of witnesses – to determine who is right. If, after reviewing all the evidence, the parties still cannot reach an agreement, a judge or jury will decide the case. Civil cases usually have two basic components: liability (who is at fault) and damages (how much should the at fault party pay). Successful advocacy involves understanding the elements of your case, the evidence available, and pursuing or defending the claim from day one, at all stages.
Sometimes a dispute is not about money. Civil lawsuits may also ask for specific relief – like declaring a law unconstitutional. A party may also ask for an injunction or restraining order requiring another party to stop doing something (or continue doing something).