Practice Areas
Civil Litigation
Not every dispute fits neatly within a particular practice area. Bery Law represents individuals and businesses in a variety of civil matters that fall outside our family, real estate, and business practices. We provide candid assessments and strategic representation at every stage, from early negotiations and pre-suit resolution through litigation and trial.
Not every legal dispute fits neatly within a particular practice area. Bery Law represents individuals and businesses in a variety of civil matters that fall outside our family, real estate, and business practices.
Civil disputes can arise from financial transactions, personal or business property, alleged wrongful conduct, or other circumstances where the parties disagree about their rights, responsibilities, or losses. Because these matters can vary significantly, we evaluate each case individually to determine whether it falls within the scope of our practice.
Pre-Suit Resolution
A lawsuit is not always the most effective first step. In many civil disputes, the parties may benefit from understanding their legal positions and exploring resolution before committing the time and expense of litigation.
Bery Law assists clients with evaluating potential claims and defenses, preparing and responding to demand letters, negotiating disputed issues, and assessing whether litigation is warranted when efforts to resolve the matter are unsuccessful.
Civil Litigation & Trial
When a dispute cannot be resolved outside of court, Bery Law represents clients throughout the litigation process, from filing or responding to a lawsuit through discovery, motion practice, mediation, and trial.
Litigation strategy depends on more than whether a viable legal claim exists. We also consider the available evidence, potential recovery or exposure, the cost of pursuing or defending the case, and the client’s broader objectives in determining how to proceed.
Our Approach to Civil Disputes
Civil cases often require an early assessment of both the legal merits and the practical realities of the dispute. We provide candid advice about strengths, weaknesses, risks, and potential paths forward so that clients can make informed decisions about whether—and how—to pursue or defend a claim.
Questions
Questions about civil litigation
How do I know whether I have a case?
A potential claim should have a legal basis, evidence to support it, and a filing deadline that has not expired. A practical assessment also considers factors such as the likely cost of pursuing the matter, the amount at stake, and whether a judgment would realistically be collectible. Looking at those issues early can help you make an informed decision about whether litigation makes sense.
What does litigation cost?
It depends on the complexity of the dispute, the volume of discovery, and how the other side litigates. What can be estimated is the cost of the next phase rather than the whole case, which is why fees are discussed in writing at the outset and revisited as the matter develops.
How long does a civil case take?
Civil disputes that do not settle early can take a year or more to reach trial, depending on the court’s docket, the complexity of the case, and the discovery required. Much of that time is spent on written discovery, document production, and depositions. Cases often resolve at mediation once the evidence is known.
Will my case go to trial?
Many cases do not. Civil matters are frequently resolved through negotiation, mediation, or other settlement efforts before trial. Preparing a case properly is what makes those resolutions possible on acceptable terms, which is why the work is approached the same way regardless of how the matter is expected to end.
Talk with us about your civil litigation matter
Contact Bery Law to discuss your situation and learn more about how we may be able to help.