Civil cases often involve legal disagreements between individuals, businesses, corporations, or partnerships. A person can also be involved in a civil case with a government entity such as a state, county, or city.
- The person that begins the process is called the plaintiff.
- The person or entity that someone is seeking damages from is called the defendant.
There are 3 types of lawsuits that can be brought in court:
- Small claims
- Seeking damages for less than $3,500
- No lawyers are involved (think Judge Judy), unless both sides agree to allow lawyers
- Cannot appeal the outcome
- Filed in Justice Court
- Civil cases seeking damages less than $10,000
- Filed in Justice Court
- Legal representation is often present
- Eligible for appeal
- Civil cases seeking damages more than $10,000
- Filed in Superior Court
- Legal representation is often present
- Eligible for appeal