1. Initiation of the Lawsuit:

• The process begins with the filing of a complaint or petition by the plaintiff, outlining the facts, legal claims, and the relief sought.
• The defendant then responds with an answer, addressing each allegation and presenting any counterclaims or defenses.

2. Pleadings:

• Complaint: The initial document filed by the plaintiff, specifying the claims and the basis for the lawsuit.
• Answer: The defendant’s response to the complaint, admitting or denying the allegations and presenting any affirmative defenses.

3. Discovery:

• Both parties engage in the exchange of information and evidence relevant to the case.
• Methods include interrogatories (written questions), depositions (oral testimony under oath), requests for documents, and requests for admission.

4. Pre-trial Motions:

• Parties may file motions to resolve specific legal issues or seek dismissal of the case.
• Examples include motions to dismiss, summary judgment motions, and motions in limine.

5. Settlement Negotiations:

• Parties often engage in settlement talks to resolve the dispute before trial.
• Settlement agreements outline the terms both parties agree to, avoiding the need for a trial.

6. Trial:

• If a settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial.
• Presentation of evidence, witness testimony, and legal arguments occur during the trial.
• A judge or jury determines the outcome based on the evidence presented.

7. Judgment:

• The court issues a judgment, which may include an award of damages, specific performance, or other remedies.
• The losing party may have the option to appeal the judgment.

8. Appeals:

• If dissatisfied with the trial court’s decision, a party may appeal to a higher court.
• The appellate court reviews the legal issues and procedures from the trial but does not typically reconsider the facts.

9. Enforcement:

• If a judgment requires a party to take specific actions or pay damages, the prevailing party may need to take legal steps to enforce the judgment.

10. Costs and Attorney’s Fees:

• The court may order the losing party to pay the prevailing party’s attorney’s fees and litigation costs.

Civil litigation is a complex and structured process designed to fairly resolve disputes and provide a legal framework for addressing a wide range of issues in a non-criminal context.