INTRODUCTION TO AMERICAN LITIGATION
Litigation is a term often heard when speaking with legal professionals or even while watching
some movies or TV shows. The word “litigation” is usually confused with the similar term
“lawsuit.” They are both related but are not to be used interchangeably. The fact is litigation is a
fundamental process in resolving any legal dispute. And it mainly takes place before either party
even enters the courtroom. So, what does litigation mean in law? Continue reading as we discuss
exactly what litigation is, why it is essential, and the crucial stages you should expect. Litigation,
meaning “dispute” (litigatio in Latin), is a law concept used to describe the process of enforcing
or defending an entity’s legal rights. It is a contested action usually made in front of a judge
between two opposing sides. The one whose right has been violated, the accuser, is legally
referred to as the plaintiff. In contrast, the other who is accused of violating the plaintiff’s legal
rights is called the defendant. Legal litigation is a general term that involves a wide variety of
legal actions and activities. It includes pre-negotiations such as requesting the approval of legal
letters in hopes of settling the case to avoid trial. Litigation processing also involves:
Court hearings
Arbitrations
Issuance of restraining orders
Temporary custody orders
Litigation is usually resolved in a court trial where a judge makes the final decision. Court
appeals are also a part of litigation proceedings. Although, settlement can happen anytime during
litigation and is often completed before a full trial begins. Most litigations involve four distinct
elements or phases. First is the Discovery phase. The legal discovery process is where the
plaintiff and defendant gather evidence to support their case. It consists of sending the other
party a written request to explain their side. It also requires reviewing documents, paperwork,
and related incidents in the past. During this process, it is essential to maximize time, accuracy,
and organization. An electronic document system like Digital WarRoom’s eDiscovery can help
speed the process up for law professionals and firms. Legal professionals prefer to use this
technology to review, manage, and compare electronic paperwork in an efficient and effective
manner. The next phase is filing a Motion. Sometimes, either party is not willing or able to enter
into a settlement. Because of that, one might submit a formal request, a motion, to take the case
into court. The third element is gathering Expert Witnesses. Here, subject matter experts act as
witnesses to help support legal claims. It usually includes credible professionals like private
investigators, doctors, and accountants ,The last element is the Trial. During this phase, all
evidence and facts are presented before a jury and judge. They will ultimately resolve the case
with a final verdict
Contrary to what most people think, litigation doesn’t end when a decision is given by a judge.
Either party still has many legal options in regards to moving forward. This can extend the
litigation process. As long as there is a dispute between the plaintiff and defendant, they will still
both be in litigation. This is common for cases that involve a division of assets or custody
hearings. The bottom line is that litigation can be as quick or as drawn out as the circumstances,
or the parties, dictate.
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