What is involved in a civil lawsuit?

Stages of a lawsuit Pleadings Discovery Pretrial Trial Appeal

Pleadings Complaint Answer States parties States factual allegations States legal causes of action Served on Defendant Answer 30 days to reply Admits or denies

Discovery Interrogatories and Requests for Documents Depositions To each party Responses due in 30 days Depositions Taken under oath Recorded in booklet form

Pretrial Order Parties prepare document Court Conference Lists causes of action and defenses Lists witnesses Lists exhibits Presents legal issues Court Conference Hearing before the Court Court enters Pretrial Order

Trial Voir Dire Opening Statement Direct Examination Cross Examination Closing Argument Jury Instructions Jury Deliberation

Appeal Motions for New Trial Court of Appeals Opinion