The Civil Trial

Civil Case

A legal case involving disputes between individuals or organizations.

Filing the Complaint

The process by which the plaintiff files a legal document explaining the harm they have suffered.

Service of Process

The official notification to the defendant that a civil lawsuit has been filed against them.

Answer

The defendant's response to the allegations made by the plaintiff in the complaint.

Discovery Phase

The phase where both parties exchange evidence, including Depositions, Interrogatories, and Requests for documents.

Pretrial Motions

Requests made before a trial, such as summary judgment or dismissal of the case.

Jury Selection

The process of choosing jurors for the trial.

Opening Statements

The initial statements made by both parties, with the plaintiffs going first.

Plaintiff’s Case

The presentation of evidence and arguments by the plaintiff in a civil trial.

Defendant’s Case

The presentation of evidence and arguments by the defendant in response to the plaintiff's case.

Rebuttal

The opportunity for the plaintiff to respond to the defendant's case.

Closing Arguments

The final statements made by both sides after all evidence has been presented.

Jury Instructions

Guidance given to the jury by the judge about how to apply the law to the facts.

Jury Deliberation

The process by which the jury discusses the case in private to reach a verdict.

Verdict

The jury's decision regarding whether the defendant is liable or not liable.

Damages Awarded

Compensation given to the plaintiff if the defendant is found liable.

Standard of Proof

The level of evidence required to prove a case; in civil cases, it is 'Preponderance of the Evidence.'