Everything you need to know
about litigation
Stages of civil litigation
Any litigant in a civil law case typically goes through several key stages: pre-filing, filing the complaint, discovery, motions and requests, settlement discussions, trial, and potential post-trial appeals.
Parties usually attempt informal resolution, such as negotiation or mediation. This stage is crucial as it may resolve the dispute without the need for formal court proceedings.
Should you pursue a lawsuit?
Are you facing a dispute and wondering if legal action is the right step? Before moving forward, it's important to know whether litigation is worth your time, money, and energy. Here's what you need to consider before filing a case.
Make sure your dispute involves a recognized legal wrong—such as breach of contract, negligence, or fraud. If you aren't sure, use our tools to review your situation.
Self-represented litigants guide
If an individual appears in court for a legal dispute—filing papers, responding to a lawsuit, or attending hearings—without an attorney representing them, they are a self-represented litigant (also called 'pro se litigant').
- If no attorney is helping with filings, arguments, or court appearances, you are self-representing.
- You sign court documents yourself (rather than through an attorney).
- Court communications and notices come directly to you, not to a lawyer.
- If you fill out official forms and act in your own name in court proceedings, you are a self-represented litigant.
Common challenges & resources
Laypersons representing themselves—also known as 'self-represented litigants'—need to be aware of several unique challenges and responsibilities before proceeding with their case.
- Self-represented litigants are responsible for knowing and following court procedures, deadlines, and local rules just like licensed attorneys.
- Courts provide extensive self-help resources, including self-help centers, online guides, and small-claims advisors, but court and courthouse staff cannot give legal advice or complete forms for litigants.
- Case outcomes for self-represented parties are often less favorable; pro se plaintiffs frequently lose because of limited legal knowledge, procedural errors, and lack of familiarity with strategy.