What Can You Expect From A Litigation Attorney?

If your only familiarity with a litigation attorney is from television shows, you might not be sure of what to expect when it comes to your case. Before you hire a lawyer, take a few minutes to learn about the process and what your lawyer will need from you in order to precede.

Hiring The Right Litigation Attorney

If you think you have a lawsuit, it's a good idea to interview a few different attorneys. In most cases, this initial appointment is free of charge, but don't shy away from a law office if you do need to pay for a consultation. This fee should be nominal and will give you a better chance get to know the attorneys who will be working on your case. Depending on the complexity of your suit, you could be spending a great deal of time with these lawyers so it's important that you think you can develop a good working relationship with them. During this initial meeting, the lawyers should give you a good idea if they think they have a lawsuit. It's impossible to predict the outcome of a trial, so if the attorneys guarantee a specific settlement amount or a specific judgment, this should send up red flags. However, it's reasonable for them to expect to win if they think your lawsuit is valid.

The Investigation Process

After you've hired a litigation attorney, the next step is the investigation process. In this step, he or she will gather witness statements, as well as interview the client and learn about all the important facts of the case. It's not uncommon for attorneys on both sides to also meet to discuss a settlement. While the case may not settle, if both parties can come to an early agreement, the expense of a trial can be avoided.

The Discovery Process

During the discovery process, a lawyer is able to ask the opposing counsel for any relevant documents or information. This is also when depositions take place. Not every piece of information will need to be turned over to the opposing counsel, however. Work product and privileged information are both protected and do not always need to be disclosed.

Pre-Trial And Trial

Pre-trial is when the case is actually put together. During this period, a litigation attorney will find expert witnesses and come up with a game plan for the actual hearing.

In a civil suit, actually going to court is rare. It's not uncommon for attorneys to settle the case before it reaches the trial. Both sides meet and try to come to a favorable agreement. If they can agree on a settlement amount, there is no need for a trial and the case is considered closed.

The life of a litigation attorney certainly isn't as glamorous as television and movies make it out to be. However, that doesn't mean that they aren't a necessary part of the legal community. If you think you have a lawsuit for a litigation attorney, the best thing to do is to meet with a few different lawyers and find one who you can work with.