In addition to criminal law, the United States legal system also contains a civil code that governs issues like business litigation, medical malpractice, and landlord-tenant disputes. Those are all examples of civil litigations, which are lawsuits between two or more parties, in which neither side is seeking criminal sanctions, like imprisonment, but instead seeking alternative remedies, like money. Find more about what civil litigations are below.

A Beginner’s Guide to Civil Litigation

What types of civil litigation are possible?

Other examples of civil litigations include personal injury, defamation, contract disputes, property disagreement, probate of wills and trusts, or libel and slander. Many civil litigation cases involve a tort, which is when someone causes injury to another person or thing. Torts can be physical injuries or attacks on one’s character.

What outcomes are possible?

The plaintiff, the person taking legal action, may ask for compensatory damages. Alternatively, they may request that the defendant, the person or organization the plaintiff is taking action against, commence or stop a particular action. For example, if a former employee is speaking poorly of their old employer and tarnishing their reputation, the employer may pursue a defamation case to get the ex-employee to stop.

How is a civil case initiated?

The plaintiff must serve the defendant with a formal complaint. This document details what the defendant is being sued for and provides a specific timeline in which they must formally respond to the complaint. This deadline is usually 30 days. A civil or criminal attorney can advise on the best way to respond.

How is a civil case won?

The burden of proof required to win a civil litigation suit tends to be less rigid than in a criminal law case. The evidence needed to prove the case depends on the circumstances. In the case of an automobile accident, for example, evidence could include police reports, witness testimonies, medical records, and traffic camera footage.

If you are considering a civil litigation case, Anderson Law Firm can help. Located in Texarkana, TX, these attorneys serve clients in both Texas and Arkansas, taking on both civil and criminal law. Attorney Darren Anderson provides clients with knowledgeable and skilled representation and will assess your case honestly. He is known for his exceptional service and efficiency, as his online testimonials show. For an appointment, call the civil and criminal law firm at (903) 792-1229.