Litigation & Defense

While most people rarely contemplate being pulled into litigation, it cannot be argued that almost any individual, business, or other entity can be swept into litigation involuntarily and at any time. You, as an un-expectant litigant, may have only days to formulate a response and avoid the inevitable panic that a surprise litigation can cause. That is the time you are going to need a seasoned attorney who can get up to speed on your case quickly – someone to ask the hard questions and learn not only the things you know, but also figure out where facts must be derived in order to strengthen your case. Litigation in the courts in which we practice is a set and known quantity to us, so when the unexpected occurs, please contact us for help.

Our attorneys have defended commercial claims, collection claims, employment suits, and both simple and complex tort actions. In our modern, litigious atmosphere it seems to be that plaintiffs get evermore inventive. That is when you will need us in your corner to efficiently and accurately assess all aspects of your case, provide you with the best, and most realistic, advice possible, and work with you towards the successful resolution of all claims.

Individual Attention in Litigation

As litigation counsel, we pride ourselves on the attention we give to each client, and in the time we take to learn relevant aspects of a new client’s business. By explaining the legal process and possible outcomes of litigation, we will help you develop and execute appropriate litigation goals for your business, designed to bring matters to a desirable conclusion, whether through settlement, a favorable judgment, or some other means of resolution.

What You Can Expect in Litigation – A General Timeline

Case Assessment and Development
This is the initial phase of a case, where we spend time asking questions,
investigating facts, analyzing all of that information, and developing a case
theory and strategy. From there consider whether arbitration may be suitable,
as well as whether we may need to employ experts.

Pleadings and Motions
During this secondary phase, our attorneys draft initial pleadings – a
complaint, an answer, or perhaps a demurrer – participate in court mandated
conferences, and draft and argue other various motions applicable to your
case.

Discovery
This area also moves along with “Pleadings and Motions” with both parties
issuing and responding to discovery requests. These may take the form of
interrogatories, requests for production of documents, requests for
admission, depositions, or subpoenas. Regardless of its form, however, the
ultimate goal of any discovery effort is always to further develop our
knowledge and case theory and strategy.

Trial
Leading up to trial, we work together with our clients to develop both fact
and expert witnesses, as well as to prepare exhibits. After trial, we await
entry of a judgment or order and then proceed to enforce the same.

Appeal
If one party disagrees with the judgment or order issued, there may be
grounds to proceed forward with an appeal. This can be a lengthy process
and is one that requires a good deal of discussion and thought before
jumping into.