After a lawsuit has been filed, many people are wondering what happens next. The first few steps are going to set the stage for the rest of the litigation process. Therefore, it is important for people to be prepared for everything that is going to happen as a lawsuit unfolds. When someone is able to prepare appropriately, they will be able to find the right legal representation to fight on their behalf. Today, we discuss the 3 key steps involved in a law suit you must know.
The Complaint and the Summons
The first two steps are going to happen relatively quickly. The first step that is going to take place is called the complaint. This is where the plaintiff describes the nature of the suit. For example, if someone files a personal injury lawsuit, the complaint might describe the nature of the injury. In a slip and fall lawsuit, the complaint is usually going to detail what happened on the day of the event.
Related: What You Need To Do After A Personal Injury
It will describe how the plaintiff slipped and fell, the injuries that were sustained, and how the defendant is responsible for what happened. After the complaint has been filed, the defendant is going to receive a summons, essentially notifying the defendant that the suit has been filed.
The Discovery Process Takes Place
After the complaint has been filed, the discovery process is going to unfold. Both sides are going to file motions to discover what evidence each side has against the other. This discovery can involve electronic documents, paper documents, and more. During this time, expert witness services might be requested. For example, if someone has suffered a brain injury, an expert witness might include a doctor who can speak to the nature of what the defendant has suffered. This is going to play a major role in whether or not the jury will find in favor of the plaintiff or the defendant. It is critical for people to plan how they are going to present their case to both the jury and the other side.
Hiring the Right Legal Services
It is not easy to go through a lawsuit either for the plaintiff or the defendant. Therefore, it is important for everyone to hire legal professionals who are going to advocate on their behalf. This is going to play a major role in the final outcome of any civil lawsuit. This includes personal injury cases, medical malpractice cases, and more. Everyone has the right to a legal defense under these circumstances.
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