General Civil Litigation
Civil claims can often be resolved without the need to file a civil lawsuit. It is usually best to attempt to resolve claims before filing a lawsuit, and our firm makes every reasonable attempt to do so, based upon the direction of the client.
Sometimes, however, pre-suit resolution is not possible due to the level of disagreement between the parties. When this happens, resolution may only be possible through litigation in a court of appropriate jurisdiction. Litigation is generally initiated with the filing of a complaint in the appropriate court, followed by discovery which includes written questions (interrogatories), production of documents, and depositions, followed by a trial. Often, before the case actually proceeds to trial, the court may require mediation or non-binding arbitration as a form of alternate dispute resolution.
Mediation
Mediation is an informal process in which the parties present their side of the case in the presence of an impartial mediator. This non-judicial process can often result in resolution of the case and negate the need for a trial. Mediation can be an attractive approach to resolution if the client believes there may be risk in proceeding to trial.
State Court or Federal Court?
Some cases can only be brought in state court: some are best brought (or can only be brought) in federal court. This decision is generally made based upon the specific application of law and the location of the parties. Our law firm represents individual and corporate clients in Florida state courts as well as in federal court.
Other Practice Areas include: