Litigation involves several stages. Ideally, you\u2019ll first consult with a lawyer or litigator experienced in the issues you\u2019re facing. They will meet with you for an initial interview to help explore the situation and advise you of your options.<\/p>\n
If you begin the litigation process, the main phases will include:<\/p>\n
This step aims to gain accessible documentation and proof necessary to build the client\u2019s side of the case. It\u2019s sometimes also referred to as the pre-filing fact-gathering phase. This step is primarily handled by the lawyer. It may involve an initial informal investigation of the facts, research into the exact details, informal witness interviews, or hiring a private investigator.<\/p>\n
After the initial investigation is completed, a formal complaint is filed with the court. This step initiates the formal lawsuit process. After the defendant answers the complaint, the case moves to the next step \u2014 discovery.<\/p>\n
Each party involved \u201cdiscovers\u201d as much information as possible about the case. This step involves legal research, document review, interviewing witnesses, depositions, motions, and more.<\/p>\n
This pre-trial phase involves meetings and negotiations between the lawyers for each side. The goal is to see if an agreement or settlement can be reached without going to court.<\/p>\n
If the case goes to trial, each side will argue their position before the court. A court trial may include a judge or a jury.<\/p>\n
This is the final outcome of the case determined by the court case.<\/p>\n
Appeals occur when one of the parties is dissatisfied with the outcome and believes there is a legal reason for the decision to be set aside. The appeal process often takes one to two years to complete.<\/p>\n