You’ve probably seen dramatic courtroom scenes on TV or in movies, where defendants are tried for serious criminal offenses like murder. However, not all trials involve criminal matters. Some cases fall under civil litigation.
Civil litigation refers to legal disputes between two or more parties, and this is where a civil litigation lawyer comes in. These lawyers specialize in this area of law and aim to resolve disputes in favor of their clients. Civil cases can range from divorce and property division to car accidents and occupational injuries.
Understanding the crucial role a civil attorney plays in your case is essential. Attempting to handle your legal matter without seeking legal representation can be a mistake. Litigation is a complex and confusing process, especially for those without experience. By hiring a knowledgeable and skilled lawyer, you increase the likelihood of reaching a positive outcome.
What Does Civil Litigation Entail?
Civil litigation occurs when one party files a lawsuit against another to address a dispute. Usually, filing a civil lawsuit aims to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions, seek compensation, or find resolution through a judge’s intervention.
Civil law encompasses various practice areas, including:
- Personal injury
- Breach of contract
- Will contests
- Probate and estate disputes
- Divorce
A civil litigation lawyer may specialize in one or more of these areas. They represent their clients from the initial filing stage to the trial and can also handle civil appeals. Even if you initially file your lawsuit without an attorney, you can still hire a civil litigation lawyer at a later stage to assist you.
The Responsibilities of a Civil Litigation Lawyer
Unlike criminal lawyers who deal with criminal law matters, civil litigation attorneys represent individuals in non-criminal fields of civil law. Their cases often involve disputes that parties cannot resolve without legal action.
In many civil litigation matters, individuals seek compensation from another party. For instance, a car accident victim might file a lawsuit against the driver responsible for the crash.
A civil litigation lawyer represents the injured party, striving to recover the owed compensation for the harm suffered. The losing party is then responsible for paying if the judge or jury rules in favor of the other party. In cases where financial awards are not involved, the lawyer’s task is to convince the judge or jury that the opposing party has wronged their client in some way.
Civil lawyers can represent individuals, companies, government entities, or multiple parties. They provide clients with legal advice and strategies for resolving their cases. Additionally, they represent clients in various proceedings, including depositions, mediations, and trials.
The specific tasks a civil litigation lawyer handles vary based on the case, but they often include:
- Investigating the opposing party’s misconduct
- Filing motions with the court
- Collecting evidence for trial
- Presenting the case on behalf of the client
- Conducting or participating in depositions
- Drafting and filing legal documents
- Finding eyewitnesses to testify in court
- Negotiating a settlement
A competent civil attorney is experienced with trials. While most cases settle before reaching trial, litigation remains a possibility, and a seasoned lawyer will be prepared. Civil attorneys are familiar with state laws and the legal processes involved in lawsuits. They handle every aspect for their clients and offer guidance and support throughout the process.
Seek Assistance from Garrity Traina
At Garrity Traina, we have been helping clients resolve their legal disputes for over two decades. We understand the stress and frustration that come with encountering issues you can’t fix on your own. Whether you need assistance negotiating child custody terms with your former spouse or battling an insurance company for a fair car accident settlement, put your trust in us.
If you require assistance with a civil litigation matter, contact us today at Garrity Traina for a consultation with our dedicated civil litigation lawyer in Bedford, TX.