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What Does a Civil Litigation Attorney Do?

A civil litigation attorney will take you through the entire process of filing and pursuing a non-criminal lawsuit. An attorney can also advise you on whether your case is best suited for court, or can be handled better outside of the courtroom. Some examples of civil litigation include:
  • Alimony
  • Personal injury
  • Debt settlement
  • Discrimination
Filing criminal cases is generally handled by government agencies, like the police or the state.

How Do I Know If I Need a Civil Litigation Attorney?

If you're considering filing a lawsuit, you may want to consult with a litigation lawyer. As legal professionals, litigation lawyers know which cases have a good chance of being successful. They're familiar with all of the procedures, steps, and necessary paperwork that needs to be done. Some cases are better handled using alternative dispute resolution, and a litigation attorney will be able to advise on your options.

How Much Does a Civil Litigation Attorney Cost?

Lawyers take different approaches to how they bill and how much they charge. Litigation attorneys may charge by the hour or may charge a contingency. Contingency means that you will not have to pay anything up front and your lawyer will take a preestablished percentage if you win your case. If your litigation attorney takes your case on a contingency basis, you probably have a very strong case. Rates will vary depending on where you live, so be sure to ask up front how much your lawyer will charge.

What Should I Expect from Working with a Civil Litigation Attorney?

Outcomes rely on many different factors, but your litigation attorney will represent you at every step in the process of filing a lawsuit.

With your lawyer's guidance, your case might be settled privately, or you could end up going to court. If you win your case, you may receive monetary compensation or force the other party to cease a harmful activity.

Since litigation lawyers know the local laws and legal procedures, their legal expertise will put you in a better position to win your lawsuit.

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.


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