Civil litigation is the legal process for resolving disputes between individuals, businesses, or entities in a court of law. It covers a broad range of non-criminal matters, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, property disputes, and employment issues. This process typically involves filing a lawsuit, followed by pre-trial proceedings such as discovery and motion hearings, settlement negotiations, and, if necessary, a trial. Civil litigation is designed to settle disagreements and resolve issues through legal means that result in monetary compensation or specific actions, rather than criminal penalties.
Throughout the course of civil litigation, both parties present their case in court, with the ultimate goal of reaching a resolution that is fair and just. This process is often seen as a way to provide closure for those involved by holding parties accountable for their actions, while also ensuring that legal rights are protected. In some cases, the process may lead to alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration, which can expedite the resolution without the need for a trial.