What is civil law?
Civil law governs disputes between individuals, organizations, or between the two, where compensation is awarded to the victim. It typically involves cases like contract disputes, property issues, and family law matters.

How does civil law differ from criminal law?
Civil law handles disputes between individuals or entities, usually involving compensation, while criminal law deals with offenses that harm society, punishable by fines or imprisonment.

What are some common types of civil cases?
Common civil cases include contract disputes, property disputes, personal injury claims, defamation, family law cases (divorce, custody), and landlord-tenant issues.

When should I hire a civil lawyer?
You should hire a civil lawyer when you’re involved in disputes about contracts, property, personal injury, or any other non-criminal legal matters. If you’re being sued or need to sue someone, legal assistance is crucial.

What services does a civil lawyer provide?
A civil lawyer provides legal advice, drafts legal documents, negotiates settlements, and represents clients in court proceedings if necessary.

How much does it cost to hire a civil lawyer?
The cost varies based on the case complexity and the lawyer’s experience. Civil lawyers may charge hourly rates, flat fees, or contingency fees (often in personal injury cases, where they are paid only if you win).

What happens in a civil lawsuit?
A civil lawsuit begins when one party files a complaint against another. The case may go through pre-trial proceedings, including mediation or settlement talks, and, if unresolved, it proceeds to trial.

What is a settlement in civil law?
A settlement is an agreement reached between the parties involved, resolving the dispute without going to court. Settlements often involve a payment or specific actions agreed upon by both sides.

How long does a civil case take to resolve?
Civil cases can last from a few months to several years, depending on factors like case complexity, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial or is settled earlier.

What is the statute of limitations in civil cases?
The statute of limitations is the deadline by which a lawsuit must be filed. It varies by the type of civil case and jurisdiction. For example, personal injury cases may have a limit of 2-3 years from the date of injury.

What happens if I lose a civil case?
If you lose a civil case, the court may order you to pay damages or follow through with certain actions. You can usually appeal the decision if there are grounds to challenge the verdict.

Can civil cases go to trial?
Yes, if a settlement is not reached, civil cases can go to trial. The trial can involve witnesses, evidence, and legal arguments, after which a judge or jury makes a final decision.

Do I have to go to court if I file a civil lawsuit?
Not always. Many civil cases are resolved through settlements or alternative dispute resolution (like mediation or arbitration) before reaching court.

Can a civil lawyer represent me in a criminal case?
No, civil lawyers specialize in non-criminal matters. If you are involved in a criminal case, you will need to hire a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in criminal law.

How do I find the right civil lawyer for my case?
To find the right civil lawyer, research lawyers with experience in your specific legal issue, check reviews or referrals, and schedule consultations to discuss their approach and fees.