What Does a Civil Litigation Lawyer Do?
Understanding the role and responsibilities of a civil litigation lawyer is essential for anyone seeking legal advice or representation in civil courts. Civil litigation attorneys, also known as litigators, represent clients in non-criminal legal disputes. Unlike criminal lawyers, who deal with criminal charges and offenses, civil litigation lawyers handle cases involving civil rights, personal injury, real estate disputes, and more. Regardless of the complexity or nature of the litigation, these specialists work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcomes for their clients.
A civil litigation lawyer has a wide range of responsibilities, all geared towards providing the best possible representation for their clients. These responsibilities include, but are not limited to evaluating claims, gathering evidence, formulating legal theories, drafting pleadings and motions, conducting discovery, making court appearances, negotiating settlements, and conducting post-trial activities.
When the dispute involves properties or real estate, such as condominium disputes, building disputes, or neighborhood disputes, the expertise of a civil litigation lawyer becomes indispensable. Part of their job then becomes navigating the intricate laws and guidelines surrounding property ownership, leasing, and rights to use. This is where specialized civil litigation lawyers, like strata lawyers Sydney, come in. These lawyers have a deep understanding of Strata laws, a complex body of law governing the operation and management of apartment buildings and townhouses, and represent clients in related disputes.
Evaluating Claims
Before a case commences, it’s the civil litigation lawyer’s job to evaluate the claims made by clients. This often involves studying the facts of the case, researching equivalent cases and laws, and making predictions on the likely outcomes of the case. By doing this, they equip themselves with vital knowledge that aids them in advising their clients on the next best steps to take.
Gathering Evidence
Once a case starts, the litigator focuses on gathering evidence to support the client’s claims. This may include sourcing documents, finding witnesses, taking depositions and, in certain complex cases, hiring professional investigators. This process, known in legal parlance as “discovery,” is critical to building a robust case.
Representing Clients
Civil litigation lawyers are skilled in various legal proceedings. They represent clients in pre-trial hearings, settlement negotiations, trial and, if necessary, appeal. Although they aim to resolve disputes in the client’s favor as quickly and economically as possible, they are prepared to go to trial if no fair agreement is reached during early stages.
Negotiating Settlements
A primary responsibility of a civil litigator is to negotiate settlements. Sometimes, it’s more advantageous for the client to settle the dispute out of court, rather than go to trial. In such a dash, the litigator will work to secure the best possible settlement on behalf of the client.
In conclusion, civil litigation lawyers play an indispensable part in the legal justice system. They represent and advise clients on numerous civil issues, striving to achieve favorable resolutions. Their knowledge and skills in negotiation, advocacy, and legal research and analysis make them uniquely qualified for this challenging yet rewarding career.