What does the civil litigation process entail?
While every case is different, most cases involve many of the same steps. These include: (1) initial investigation; (2) pre-suit demand (when warranted); (3) filing suit; (4) discovery; and, (5) trial. Discovery is a process of court-sanctioned fact exchange and can take years to complete based on the complexity of the case. Discovery includes the exchange of written questions, depositions and other activities like site inspections. A deposition involves the taking of a sworn statement before a court reporter who prepares a transcript of the proceedings. In some cases, few depositions will be required; in others there can be dozens.
