What is Civil Litigation?
Civil litigation is what you think of when you picture a courtroom, unless you think of a trial where someone has been arrested. The court cases involving someone who has been arrested and is being tried are criminal court cases.
Civil cases are all those other cases, like car accidents, breach of contract, insurance disputes, disputes with former employers, and the like. In civil cases, the plaintiff (that would be you) sues another person or company, known as the defendant.
What is the process for Civil Litigation?
Pre-suit investigation and negotiation
Gather facts, records, and evidence. Demand a fair resolution. Many disputes are settled here.
Filing the complaint
We file a complaint describing what happened and the relief sought.
The answer
The defendant responds; they usually deny the allegations in the complaint.
Discovery
Both sides exchange information: documents, written questions, and depositions under oath.
Motions
The plaintiff and the defendant ask the court to decide legal issues.
Mediation/ settlement talks
A neutral mediator helps the parties explore a settlement. Many cases resolve at this stage.
Trial
If the case does not settle, a judge or jury decides the case based on evidence and the law.
Post-trial and appeals (if any)
After the court enters judgment, either side may appeal. There are very strict deadlines for an appeal.
How Long Does It Take?
After we file a “standard” case (like a car accident or insurance dispute), the case goes to trial in about one year. However, if the case is a complex case involving pharmaceuticals, the entire case takes much longer. In addition, federal cases last longer. As a result, we try to stay in state court.
Tips if you’re considering a case
Act promptly
Statutes of limitations can be short. Missing a deadline can bar your claim entirely.
Tell your lawyer everything
The good, the bad, and the ugly will come to light in discovery. Your lawyer needs the full picture to protect you.
Preserve evidence
Do not delete, discard, or alter anything that could be relevant -- documents, emails, texts, photos, videos, social media posts, contracts, repair bills. Destroying evidence can lead to serious court sanctions.
Set realistic expectations
Civil cases move much more slowly than criminal cases. Plan for months or even years, not weeks.
Keep social media to a minimum
Be careful with social media and public statements. Opposing counsel may use them to undermine your position.
How Beck Law Center can Help
- Early case assessment and strategy
- Evidence preservation and thorough discovery
- Practical negotiation and mediation
- Firm litigation when needed, with clear, frequent updates
Legal Notice: This page is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Results depend on the facts and laws of your jurisdiction. If you have questions about your specific case, please contact Beck Law Center at 888-434-2912.
A note regarding images: Images on this website are for illustrative purposes only. Some images are originals; some are stock photos; some have been modified or created using AI.
