Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Litigation refers to the process of taking legal action to enforce or defend a legal right. It involves a series of steps that may lead to a court trial and ultimately result in a resolution of the dispute. In Dallas, as in the rest of the United States, litigation procedures and regulations are heavily based on the federal laws, however, certain state-specific regulations do exist. Areas often involved in litigation include business disputes, personal injury claims, family disputes, and estate contests.
A litigation lawyer, or litigator, can be a vital ally when facing legal disputes. They can help navigate the complexities of the court system, understand local applications of the law, and provide expert advice about your rights and responsibilities. Common reasons for needing a litigation lawyer include commercial disputes, breach of contract cases, real estate disputes, product liability claims, and personal injury claims, among others. Often, litigation lawyers can help achieve a resolution through out-of-court negotiations, saving you time and money.
Dallas follows the federal and Texas state laws when it comes to litigation. Of note is that Texas practices comparative negligence in personal injury cases which could limit how much compensation you can claim based on your percentage of fault. In addition, Texas has a 'one bite rule' for dog bite cases, protecting owners if the dog had no previous indicators of aggression. Moreover, there is a specific protocol to be followed in medical malpractice cases which includes providing notice and an expert report. It's essential to have an understanding of these and other pertinent local laws to successfully navigate litigation in Dallas.
There's no definitive timeline for litigation as it greatly depends on the specifics of the case, complexity, the court's schedule, and whether settlement talks are successful or if it goes to trial. Generally, it can take anywhere from several months to a few years.
While you theoretically have the right to represent yourself, known as 'pro se' representation, it's not recommended due to the complexity of the legal system. A litigation lawyer can best protect your interests and navigate the process.
You should look for an attorney experienced in the type of litigation you are pursuing, reputed for their expertise, communicative, transparent about fees, and someone you feel comfortable working with.
The Texas statute of limitations varies by the nature of the case. For example, personal injury cases generally have a two-year statute of limitations while contract cases have a four-year limit.
Costs can vary greatly depending on the specifics of your case and the lawyer's expertise. Some may charge by the hour while others may operate on a contingency basis. It's important to discuss fees and payment structures upfront.
Dallas Bar Association, Texas State Law Library and the Dallas County Law Library can be valuable resources for legal information. In addition, the Texas Court Help website provides easy-to-understand resources about the Texas legal system and court procedures.
If you believe you need legal assistance with litigation in Dallas, start by identifying experienced litigation lawyers in the area. Schedule consultations to discuss the specifics of your case, understand their approach, and gauge if they are a good fit your needs. Remember, finding the right lawyer often involves a bit of research and patience, but it's crucial to a successful legal journey.
