Civil Cases
Jessica Clifford
What Qualifies as a Civil Case?
A civil case is typically a private case involving private parties. Courts settle civil disputes between private parties, a private party and the government, or the United States and a state or local government.
Civil Case Proceedings
Oh no! Someone has filed a compliant and you've received a summons to appear in court. Now what? You, the defendant, must appear in court on the given date. In the complaint, the plaintiff states your accuses. Will you plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest?
Solving the Dispute
In the pretrial conference with the judge, and in order to avoid a trial, the court will encourage you to solve the dispute through either mediation or arbitration. These methods involve another person who will help both parties compromise to reach a solution.
The Verdict
If a trial is necessary, there must be a preponderance of evidence in order to determine your guilt. If there is not enough evidence, you will most likely not be convicted. If the judge reaches a verdict and you are found guilty, you have the right to appeal to a higher court so that the decision may be reviewed.