What Is Civil Litigation? Understanding the Process, Purpose, and Legal Support

When legal disputes arise between individuals, businesses, or organizations that don’t involve criminal charges, they are typically handled through civil litigation. If you’re involved in a legal conflict over contracts, property, business dealings, or personal rights, knowing what civil litigation is—and how a civil litigation lawyer can help—is essential.

At Nave Team, our experienced attorneys provide strategic representation in all types of civil litigation law to protect your rights and pursue favorable outcomes.

What Does Civil Litigation Mean?

Civil litigation refers to the legal process of resolving non-criminal disputes through the court system. This process involves one party (the plaintiff) filing a lawsuit against another party (the defendant) to enforce a legal right or seek damages for a wrong.

Common types of civil litigation cases include:

• Breach of contract 
• Property disputes 
• Employment law claims 
• Business litigation 
• Personal injury lawsuits 
• Landlord-tenant disputes 
• Civil rights violations 

So, what is civil litigation? It’s the formal mechanism for resolving private legal disputes in a court of law.

What Is a Civil Litigation Lawyer?

A civil litigation lawyer (also called a civil litigation attorney) represents clients in lawsuits where monetary damages or specific performance—not criminal penalties—are being sought. These legal professionals handle every phase of litigation, from case evaluation to appeals.

What Does a Civil Litigation Lawyer Do?

A civil litigation attorney is responsible for:

• Investigating claims and gathering evidence 
• Filing or responding to complaints 
• Conducting depositions and discovery 
• Drafting legal motions and briefs 
• Representing clients in court or negotiations 
• Exploring settlement options 

Whether you’re the plaintiff or the defendant, a civil litigation lawyer protects your interests throughout the legal process.

What Is Civil Litigation Law?

Civil litigation law governs how non-criminal legal disputes are handled and resolved. It covers:

• Rules of procedure 
• Evidence and filing requirements 
• Courtroom practices 
• Legal remedies such as monetary damages or injunctions 

Unlike criminal law, where the government prosecutes a defendant, civil litigation law involves private parties seeking justice or compensation.

What Is General Civil Litigation?

General civil litigation refers to a broad range of non-criminal legal disputes not focused on a specific area of law. It can include:

• Debt recovery 
• Property damage 
• Consumer protection claims 
• Partnership or shareholder disputes 

Attorneys practicing in this area are well-versed in multiple fields and often represent individuals or businesses in diverse types of legal conflicts.

What Is Civil Rights Litigation?

Civil rights litigation is a specialized area of civil litigation that focuses on violations of individual rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution or civil rights laws. Common cases include:

• Police misconduct 
• Unlawful discrimination 
• Violations of free speech, privacy, or due process 

Civil rights cases can be brought against government agencies, employers, or institutions and often require highly experienced attorneys due to their complexity.

When to Hire a Civil Litigation Attorney

You should consult a civil litigation attorney if:

• You’re being sued or want to file a lawsuit 
• A contract has been breached 
• A dispute is escalating without resolution 
• You need legal representation in mediation, arbitration, or court 
• You’ve suffered financial loss due to another’s actions 

An attorney will review your case, explain your legal options, and advocate for your best interests in and out of court.

FAQs About Civil Litigation

Q: What is civil litigation?
A: Civil litigation is the legal process of resolving disputes between individuals or entities through the court system, typically involving monetary damages or specific actions.

Q: What is a civil litigation lawyer?
A: A civil litigation lawyer represents clients in non-criminal legal disputes, managing all aspects of a case from filing through trial or settlement.

Q: What does a civil litigation attorney do?
A: They conduct legal research, file lawsuits or defenses, manage discovery, represent clients in court, and negotiate settlements.

Q: What is the difference between civil and criminal law?
A: Civil law addresses private disputes; criminal law involves offenses prosecuted by the government that can result in jail or fines.

Q: What is civil rights litigation?
A: It focuses on legal claims involving violations of civil liberties, such as unlawful discrimination, police brutality, or freedom of speech infringements.

Conclusion

Civil litigation is a complex, detail-oriented area of law that requires careful legal strategy and strong advocacy. Whether you’re defending your business, resolving a contract dispute, or pursuing a personal claim, the Nave Team’s experienced civil litigation attorneys are ready to help.

Contact us today for a consultation and let us protect your rights and resolve your dispute with the skill and professionalism you deserve.