If you’re like most people, filing or being named in a lawsuit is a nerve-wracking time. You are entering uncharted waters with no idea what the outcome will be or how far the case will go. What you want most is a qualified litigation attorney by your side to support you through this trying time. Understanding what your Chicago litigation lawyer is doing on your behalf can go a long way toward easing your mind about the litigation process and the role of the attorney.
Understanding What A Chicago Litigation Lawyer Does
Peck Ritchey’s Litigation lawyers handle civil lawsuits. They file lawsuits and carry them through the legal process. A Chicago litigation lawyer may or may not carry the case all the way to a trial. In fact, the vast majority of litigation cases are settled out of court and never make it to the trial court.
A Chicago litigation lawyer from Peck Ritchey handles the case from beginning to end. After they submit the initial filing, a litigator gets to work gathering evidence, researching case law and developing the case. For plaintiffs, this involves proving that you have suffered a loss in some way. For defendants in Chicago, a litigation lawyer will examine the evidence against you and develop a defense. These attorneys can interview witnesses and take statements, gather documents and conduct fact-finding searches to support their case. Much of their work is done outside of the courtroom and it is not at all uncommon for a litigator to never set foot inside a courtroom or present in front of a judge and jury. Most of their work is done via the phone and through written correspondence. Successful Chicago litigation lawyers are very detail oriented and familiar with the ins and outs of legal filings and motions.
Don’t be surprised if your lawyer recommends settling out of court. It’s very, very common for litigation cases to be settled this way and does not mean your case isn’t valid. Settling out of court is just one alternative to going to trial. It’s usually quicker than going to trial and both parties can still come to an agreement.
If a case does go to trial, the litigator will prepare it for presentation in court by gathering evidence, preparing witnesses and developing arguments and statements. At trial, your attorney will help select the jury and present the case in court, question witnesses and present evidence. They will help work out the settlement and can file an appeal if you lose your case.
The Specialization Of Litigation Lawyers
A Chicago litigation lawyer typically specializes in one or two areas of law, concentrating his or her practice almost exclusively on cases falling into these areas. Before hiring a Chicago litigation lawyer, you’ll want to learn what areas of law they specialize in and make sure it fits your needs. A Chicago litigation lawyer with the appropriate background and knowledge is crucial to the success of your case.
You will find a qualified and respected Chicago litigation lawyer covering all aspects of probate, trust and guardianship litigation at Peck Ritchey, LLC. Contact us at (855) 328-5787 for more information about our litigation services covering all aspects of elder law.