Civil litigation covers a wide range of disputes between individuals and entities alike. If you are involved in a conflict that cannot be resolved through negotiations in Georgia, you may need the courts to step in and make things right. Civil cases can involve issues like contract disputes, violations of privacy, commercial disagreements, car accidents and other motor vehicle crashes, employment problems, and even civil rights claims.
When a lawsuit becomes necessary, an experienced attorney can offer skilled guidance and award-winning representation from the beginning of your case to its conclusion.
What Is Civil Litigation?
Civil litigation is the process of resolving disputes through the court system. Unlike criminal cases, which involve the government prosecuting someone for a crime, civil cases focus on conflicts between private parties. The goal is usually to recover compensation, enforce a contract, or stop someone from continuing harmful conduct.
In Georgia, civil litigation can involve:
- Breach of contract claims
- Commercial leasing disputes
- Personal injury cases, such as slips and falls
- Violations of privacy
- Civil rights claims
- Employment disputes
- Unfair business practices
Understanding the type of dispute you’re facing helps your attorney determine the best approach for resolution.
When Is Litigation the Right Choice?
Before filing a lawsuit, it’s important to understand whether civil litigation is truly the best option. Lawsuits can be time-consuming and complex, especially in certain circumstances, such as when a local government is involved. Your lawyer should take the time to review the facts of your case and discuss possible alternatives with you beforehand.
Litigation might be the right choice when, for instance:
- Negotiation and other informal resolution methods have failed
- The other party denies responsibility
- Your financial losses are significant
- You need a court order to enforce your rights
- A legal deadline is approaching, and waiting further could jeopardize your claim
If your attorney determines that litigation is the best path forward, they will prepare your case for court carefully and develop a strategy tailored to your desired outcomes.
What Happens During the Civil Litigation Process?
Civil litigation follows a structured series of steps.
While every case is unique, at the end of the day, most lawsuits in Georgia involve the following stages:
- Filing the complaint: This document explains your claim and what you are seeking in terms of relief from the court
- Service and response: The opposing party is notified and must respond within a set time
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information, such as documentation and other evidence
- Motions: Either party may ask the court to rule on specific legal questions before trial
- Mediation or settlement talks: Many cases resolve before trial through negotiated agreements
- Trial: If a settlement is not possible, a judge or jury will hear the case and issue a decision
Throughout this process, your lawyer should be prepared and organized at all times, helping you understand what is happening at every stage and what to expect next.
What Kinds of Remedies Are Available in a Civil Case?
The purpose of civil litigation is usually to correct a wrong or compensate a person for their losses.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your claim, you may be entitled to:
- Economic and non-economic damages for injuries and related losses
- Court orders enforcing a contract
- Injunctions stopping harmful behavior
- Declaratory judgments clarifying your legal rights
- Attorney’s fees and costs in qualifying cases
In more complex matters, such as commercial disputes or privacy violations, the remedy may involve more than one type of relief. Your lawyer can help determine which remedies apply to your situation and pursue them aggressively in court.
Appeals and Post-Judgment Enforcement
Winning a case is not always the end of the process. Sometimes, the opposing party appeals the decision or refuses to comply with a court order. Your attorney can handle this process and other post-judgment matters to ensure the result you win in court is enforced.
For example, your lawyer can take steps like:
- Responding to appeals
- Filing appeals when errors occur
- Collecting judgments
- Garnishment and lien procedures
- Enforcing court orders
This ensures that your rights continue to be protected even after the court decides on the matter.
Contact the Marietta Civil Litigation Attorneys at Turner Ross Germain Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you are involved in a civil dispute and need guidance on how to move forward, Turner Ross Germain Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our Marietta civil litigation lawyers have extensive experience with Georgia’s civil court system and are prepared to take your case as far as necessary to protect your rights.
Call us today at (470) 260-4731 to schedule your free consultation and let our team of Marietta civil litigation attorneys fight to protect your rights and interests.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Office in Marietta, GA
Turner Ross Germain Personal Injury Lawyers
1501 Johnson Ferry Rd, Unit 100, Marietta, GA 30062
Phone number: (470) 260-4731
We’re available 24/7