Share:

Most civil disputes, including those pertaining to personal injuries or contractual disagreements, can generally be settled out of court. But sometimes, mutually agreeable solutions are simply impossible to find. In these instances, the parties may resort to a civil litigation trial, in which both the plaintiff and the defendant have the opportunity to present their evidence.

While civil litigation may seem complex, each trial generally has six phases, starting with:

  • civil litigationJury Selection: Most family court cases and some other issues might be tried before a single judge, but civil matters are generally decided by a jury. After questioning, the judge and civil attorneys for both sides can eliminate potential jurors from the pool based on a variety of factors, including a demonstrated inability to be objective in the case.
  • Opening Statements: Before either side calls witnesses or presents evidence, they will have the opportunity to make an opening statement. The plaintiff's attorney will typically go first, outlining the facts of the case and explaining the defendant's liability before the other side explains how they intend to respond.
  • Witness Testimony: This phase, also called the “case-in-chief”, is the essence of any civil litigation suit. Both sides will present testimony by experts witnesses as well as those with first-hand knowledge of the case. After each witness testifies, the opposing counsel will have the opportunity to discredit their testimony by asking their own questions in a phase known as “cross-examination.”
  • Closing Arguments: This phase is similar to the opening statements, in that the attorneys for each side restate their positions, reminding the jurors of key pieces of evidence and explaining the strengths of their case.
  • Jury Instructions: Once they have all the evidence, the jury will receive instructions from the judge explaining key legal terms, essential principles, and what standards they must use to reach a decision.
  • The Verdict: After receiving their instructions, the jury will have their first opportunity to discuss the case and attempt to reach a consensus. In most states, civil litigation matters usually require a unanimous decision by a full jury of 12 people.

 

For over 70 years, the attorneys at Zangari Cohn Cuthbertson Duhl & Grello P.C. in New Haven, CT, have helped clients succeed in a variety of civil litigation matters, from personal injury cases to business disputes. Learn more about their reputation for superior service online, follow their Facebook for more legal insight, or call (203) 789-­0001 for a consultation today.

tracking