Who Is a Civil Lawyer? What Do They Do? |
Posted: March 28, 2024 |
A civil lawyer, often known as a civil litigation lawyer or a litigator, deals with non-criminal issues and legal disputes. If you've ever been through a divorce or started a business, you may have used the services of a litigator. Let's look a little deeper into what a civil lawyer is and what they do. What Is a Civil Lawyer?The phrase "civil lawyer" refers to attorneys who practice non-criminal law. Litigators can practice in a variety of fields, but they typically specialize in one — such as personal injury, real estate, or estate planning. What Is the Difference Between a Civil and a Criminal Case?Criminal lawyers work to prosecute or defend individuals who have committed crimes against the public, state, or country. Civil lawyers handle situations where there is a disagreement between individuals or organizations but no criminal laws have been committed. Types of Civil LawyersThere are various categories of lawyers who practice civil law. These may include:
What Does a Civil Lawyer Do?Civil litigation attorneys defend clients in civil law matters. They can collaborate with individuals, businesses, and governmental agencies. A civil lawyer may assist their client with the first steps of initiating a case, as well as litigation, potential court proceedings, and resolution. They can also help assess if a case should be heard by a judge or handled outside of the courtroom through mediation, arbitration, and/or negotiation. Furthermore, litigators can assist in deciphering the legal jargon and procedures that may accompany initiating a lawsuit against someone. What Is the Civil Lawsuit Procedure Like?The civil lawsuit process can be scary. However, understanding how the procedure works and what to expect from your lawyer can make a significant difference. Here's what the civil litigation procedure could look like. File a petitionFirst, when a client appoints a civil lawyer, they will submit a petition with the court. This declaration explains why they are suing the other party. Once filed, the petition and summons will be delivered to the defendant, or the person or business against whom the lawsuit is being filed. This informs them of the charges leveled against them and sets a deadline for their response. DiscoveryOnce the defendant responds to the summons, their lawyer will begin the discovery process. This is when they will gather information and evidence to support the claim and develop a case against the defendant. Next stepsAfter gathering all pertinent material, their lawyer will assess the best course of action, which may include seeking to settle or taking the issue to court. They will then negotiate with the defendant and their counsel to reach a mutually beneficial deal. Alternatively, they will debate the case before a judge and jury, who will then decide the outcome. How Much Does a Civil Lawyer Charge?Costs are determined by a variety of criteria, including the exact profession in which your lawyer practices, their level of experience, location, and the quantity of labor required for your case. Furthermore, many attorneys require a retainer in addition to their hourly charge, which is intended to cover any additional costs incurred during the legal procedure. The average hourly rate for a lawyer in the United States is around $400. This is a good place to start when estimating the cost of bringing a civil case. However, this figure is extremely changeable. Consider speaking personally to a few lawyers in your region to obtain a precise picture of the prices. The bottom lineIf you believe you may need to file a civil action, talking to a civil lawyer is a useful first step. They can assist you understand how the procedure will work and lead you in the appropriate direction. If you have legal insurance, you may have access to lawyers who can provide legal advice and assist you along the way.
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