Top Fresno, CA Litigation & Appeals Lawyers Near You

Do You Have a Civil Litigation Problem?

Civil litigation is the broad term used to cover the legal issues involved with civil legal disputes, which can end up as lawsuits. If you or your company has a dispute with someone else, seeking the advice of a Fresno civil litigation attorney can save you time and money.

Types of Matters Litigated Civilly

Civil litigation differs from Criminal cases in that it deals with disputes between people that do not involve evaluating a crime. Civil disputes can include business problems, breach of contract, personal injury, and more.

Civil litigation occurs when one party (the plaintiff) initiates a civil lawsuit in court against another party (the defendant). Every State, city and municipality may differ in how they handle certain litigation procedures. The key elements of a civil litigation case include a complaint establishing the harm caused by the defendant, response to the complaint, pleading, discovery, trial and possibly an appeal.

What sort of issues can I seek legal help with?

Specialized legal help is available for most legal issues. Each case is unique; seeking legal help is a smart first step toward understanding your legal situation and seeking the best path toward resolution for your case. An experienced lawyer understands the local laws surrounding your case and what your best legal options might be. More importantly, there are certain situations and circumstances – such as being charged with a crime – where you should always seek experienced legal help.

What to Expect from an Initial Consultation

• Seek to determine whether the attorney can represent you. There is no one-size-fits-all legal solution and it may turn out your needs are better served by an attorney in a different specialization.
• It’s important to find a legal ally who is both competent in the law and someone you can trust to protect your interests.
• Discuss how the practice’s billing works and discuss possible additional charges or fees that may arise during or after the resolution of your case.

An attorney consultation should provide you with enough information so that you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with legal help.

Does firm size matter?

For most consumer legal issues, the size of the practice is much less important than the experience, competence, and reputation of the attorney(s) handling your case. Among the most important factors when choosing an attorney are your comfort level with the attorney or practice and the attorney’s track record in bringing about quick, successful resolutions to cases similar to yours.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.