When we were all younger, most of us at one time or another watched the television show The People’s Court. Rusty the bailiff was a senior citizen that appeared to have just woken up. Doug Llewelyn was the person that would interview (try to) the people after the verdict. Judge Wapner always seemed a bit evil and ready to snap at a moment’s notice. He was the stereotypical angry old man. But he was a judge and his rulings had to be followed. (This is when I first realized how screwed up the justice system was. And don’t even get me started on Judge Judy.)
Of course, this was a reality television show that dealt with real cases, but nothing too heavy. Kidnappings, murders, and divorces were not on the docket. Judge Wapner was handling all the little personal squabble civil cases. Even as a kid, I noticed that some of the most basic cases, where there was a clear winner and loser, would get all screwed up because the person did not present their case well.
No one wants to hire a lawyer. Innocent people usually do not lawyer up. However, sometimes there is a need to hire a lawyer for your own good. Police generally do not get involved in civil cases (private disputes between people and businesses). Police just usually stick with criminal matters. The sad thing is that anyone can get sued in this day and age for almost anything.
It’s good to know civil law attorneys who will represent you in the context of civil disputes and defamation. Civil matters are in relation to how people interact with one another. One person can sue the other because at least in their mind, they have been done wrong. Or if someone is owed money but the other person refuses to pay, a civil lawsuit can be brought upon the other.
Maybe you are thinking that if a civil lawsuit is ever brought against you, then you will represent yourself. While self-representation is a possibility, and is cheap, there is a good chance you will lose the case. It is inadvisable to ever represent yourself in court.
But if you do, then it is best to do some quality research on the law. Also, watch as many tv shows and movies that you can on how a lawyer is extremely effective in court. Matlock is always a good one to study. Saul Goodman might be able to help you out as well.
However, it is in your best interest to contact a civil lawyer. There are essential steps to take before the civil case is even presented before a judge. Once a civil case is brought, Person A and Person B both can send written questions to each other that must be answered under oath. The answers can then be used as evidence in the case.
Another step to prepare for a civil case is the sharing of any pertinent documents. If there were bills, contracts, or agreements between the two parties, copies must be made available to the other side in preparation for the civil case. Judge Wapner was always big on seeing these documents during the case, and your judge will be, too. Let your lawyer present your important documents for you.
There are a few other reasons to contact a lawyer if a civil lawsuit is brought against you. You may also at some point in your life have to bring a civil lawsuit against somebody as well. If you have a real case where the other party is not responding to your concerns, then contacting a lawyer will help you work out the problem. Most people ignore complaints from neighbors and acquaintances without a second thought. However, once a lawyer is involved, it gets very real!
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