Experienced and Ethical Civil Litigation Attorneys
Serving San Bernardino County and the Inland Empire for Over 35 Years
When someone violates your legal rights, a civil litigation attorney can advocate for the relief you’re entitled to receive. Granowitz White & Weber in San Bernardino, California has represented clients for more than 35 years in various disputes involving contract breaches, real estate conflicts and damage to someone else’s property or business.
What is civil litigation?
Civil litigation covers a broad range of disputes between parties, including conflicts involving contractual relationships, alleged tortious misconduct and property rights. These matters are distinguishable from criminal cases, in which government prosecutors aim to convict defendants accused of a crime. In most civil cases, the plaintiff seeks monetary damages for the harm they claim to have suffered. Sometimes, the defendant will file a counterclaim, alleging they have been harmed by the plaintiff. In some civil litigation matters, the plaintiff seeks something beside a monetary award, such as specific performance of a contract or an injunction preventing the defendant from engaging in a certain activity.
When does a civil dispute need to be litigated?
There are multiple paths to resolution of business disputes or other types of disagreements. Often, effective negotiation between the parties is sufficient to achieve a mutually agreeable outcome. Other times, neutral third parties are brought in to serve as mediators or arbitrators. Whenever possible, pursue a solution that avoids the time and expense of going to court. However, there are instances where the sides are too far apart or an adversary will not engage in reasonable settlement discussions. When this occurs, litigation is the best way to secure the result you seek.
How do you proceed with a civil lawsuit?
A civil lawsuit starts with the filing of a complaint and associated forms with the applicable court. The complaint, along with a summons and other forms, are then served on the defendant. Depending on the amount at issue, the complaint should be listed a Small Claims, Limited Civil or Unlimited Civil Case. Avoiding mistakes and adhering to deadlines is critical.
What should you do if you are a respondent in a civil lawsuit?
Getting served with a summons and complaint can be disconcerting. The first step you should take If you’ve been named as a defendant in a civil lawsuit is to consult with a qualified lawyer. He or she can assess whether the allegations against you have any merit and advise whether the best course of action is to file an answer or motion to dismiss. In most cases, you have only 30 days to respond, sometimes less, so you should not hesitate to retain counsel.
How long do civil lawsuits typically take to resolve?
Some civil litigation cases are wrapped up relatively quickly while others continue for years. The complexity of the claims, the time needed to investigate and to collect evidence, the number of legal issues that require resolution through motions and the court’s calendar can all affect the duration of a lawsuit. No matter the circumstances, we press to obtain a successful outcome as quickly as possible.
Contact an accomplished California civil litigator today
Granowitz White & Weber in San Bernardino provides representation in a wide range of California civil litigation matters. To schedule a consultation regarding your particular legal dispute, please call 909-890-1717 or contact us online.
