What Does A Civil Litigation Attorney Do

What Does A Civil Litigation Attorney Do

What Is A Civil Litigation Case?

If the case you need help with does not involve jail time or a criminal fine, then it is probably a civil case. Some examples of civil cases are cases about family issues, such as divorce, child support, child custody, and name changes. Some other examples of civil cases are cases about paying for a home, repairing an apartment, damage to property, and collecting on a debt. If your case is a civil case, information on the topics below is available to help you. Just click on the topic you want to read.

 

Types of Civil Litigation Cases

There are a variety of legal disputes that fall under the umbrella of civil litigation. Listed below are some of the most common types of cases you may need a civil litigation attorney for:

  • Personal injury cases
  • Landlord disputes
  • Intellectual property disputes
  • Medical malpractice cases
  • Employment or labor disputes
  • Education law disputes
  • Lawsuits surrounding divorce

All of these types of cases share the commonality that there are no criminal charges involved. Typically, civil litigation cases will involve money and property, with some outliers.

 

Can I Sue Someone in Small Claims Court?

If you are a legal adult (usually over 18 years old) or a legally emancipated minor, then you can go to court. You do not need an attorney to file a claim or start a lawsuit. Most businesses can also handle minor issues in small claims court if your state allows it.

Depending on the state you live in, the amount of money you ask for in your case may need to be under $2,500 (Kentucky) or could be as much as $25,000 (Tennessee). Most states’ limits fall in the middle of those amounts.

Your case might involve other government agencies. This applies to situations like discrimination from an employer. You will need to talk to and file complaints with other agencies before you can go to court. This is called “exhausting administrative remedies,” and you will need to prove that you took all possible steps to find a solution before going to small claims court.

 

Types of Cases Handled in Small Claims Court

It is common to see cases involving two people with a simple dispute. Often, the case will involve clear state laws, but one person is acting in the wrong. Most people consider a small claims court case when they are suing someone else for:

  • A landlord not returning a security deposit
  • Gym contract disputes
  • Overcharges for car repairs or faulty work
  • Unlawful eviction notices
  • Neighbor disputes
  • Unpaid bills
  • Sales where the property or money was not received
  • Pet disputes

Timing, Costs, and Fees for Small Claims Court

Most states have a statute of limitations of two years for many minor cases handled in small claims court. This means you will need to assess the problem and file the claim at your local court within two years of the day the problem occurred. Some states allow up to four years if the issue involves a spoken or written contract.

You can expect to pay:

  • A filing fee up to $150
  • Court clerk services costs
  • Court fees
  • Any specific dollar amount a judge decides for settlement

Remember: There is a dollar limit on the money you can win in a small claims case. It is common for states to cap it at $3,000-$20,000. If that amount is not good enough, then you need to consider taking your case to a different court (which may require you to get an attorney).

 

Personal Injury Lawyer Serving Sugar Land, Texas

Attorney Fuller is a seasoned attorney with nearly three decades of experience representing a wide range of clients. This includes individuals who have suffered an injury due to another’s actions, individuals facing criminal charges, those who have been arrested for DWI, individuals who have found themselves in a civil litigation dispute, and those looking for legal guidance in business.

After filling out a client intake form, Attorney Lanease D. Fuller will take appropriate action in your case to help you get the results you are looking for. This includes but not limited to gathering evidence, going to trial, and earning a settlement that is appropriate for your specific situation. Reach out to us today to take the first step towards settling your case.

 

LANEASE D. FULLER LAW
4615 S. Frwy St. 820
Houston, TX 77051
713-439-7400
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