Germantown, Maryland Civil Litigation Attorneys

What is Civil Litigation?

Civil litigation is a legal process involving disputes between two parties, which does not involve criminal charges or penalties.  Generally, the plaintiff is seeking compensation or another form of remedy from the defendant.  A civil case may involve various types of parties, and may be an individual going against another individual, businesses, or government entities, or any different combination of the above.  These disputes can be resolved through well-planned negotiations or by going to court and asking a judge or jury to rule on the outcome.

When a civil case goes to trial, the standard of proof is generally less stringent than in criminal cases.  In criminal trials, the prosecutor must present strong evidence and prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.  In contrast, in civil litigation, the party that presents the more persuasive evidence is typically the one that prevails.  At Paré & Associates, our civil litigation attorneys thoroughly assess each case to ensure the best possible chances of a favorable outcome for our clients.

What Types of Civil Litigation Are There?

Since civil litigation involves non-criminal legal matters, the responsibilities of a civil litigation lawyer are typically broad and varied. Our civil litigation attorneys handle a wide range of cases, including commercial litigation, business disputes, shareholder and LLC conflicts, contract disputes, real estate and property issues (such as property boundaries, easements, adverse possession, and quiet title), estate litigation, construction disputes, private nuisance claims, personal injury cases, and appeals. Many civil litigation cases are resolved outside the courtroom, as the parties often choose to settle rather than go to trial. At Paré & Associates, we have the expertise to navigate the complexities of civil litigation and provide effective solutions for our clients.

Do You Need a Civil Litigation Attorney?

Hiring an experienced civil litigation attorney is crucial because they possess the expertise to handle the complex procedures of civil court, protect your rights, and represent your interests in a non-criminal dispute, whether you’re the plaintiff or the defendant. They thoroughly assess your case, gather necessary evidence, build your argument, and may either negotiate a settlement or take your case to trial if needed, all while working to maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome in a potentially financially impactful matter.

How Do I Get Started?

Although the specifics of each civil litigation case can vary greatly depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction, the legal process for most civil cases in Maryland and Washington, D.C. follows a standard procedure.  After a client meets with us for an initial consultation, whether in person or virtually, our civil litigation attorneys begin by conducting an investigation and legal analysis.  If the client is the plaintiff, our attorneys will assess whether the client has what is called a prima facie case, meaning that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a lawsuit.  If the client is the defendant, our experienced trial lawyers will work diligently to explore and develop potential defense strategies.

Once the initial investigation is complete, our civil litigation attorneys will prepare and file the necessary pleadings in the court of the corresponding jurisdiction.

Should I Settle or Go to Trial?

In most civil cases, settling is typically the preferred option over going to trial, as it provides a faster, more cost-effective resolution with greater control over the outcome. In contrast, trials involve uncertainties, as the judge or jury ultimately decides who prevails.  As a result, the majority of civil cases are settled before reaching a full trial.  At Paré & Associates, our attorneys carefully evaluate each case to ensure that clients are fully informed about the advantages and disadvantages of settling versus going to trial at every stage.  We work to maximize the chances of a favorable outcome for our clients, whether through settlement or litigation.

Should I Appeal an Unfavorable Judgment of the Trial Court?

In most cases after a trial, there is one party that prevails and one that does not.  The losing party may choose to appeal the decision within the required time frame, according to the rules of the relevant jurisdiction.  If an appeal is pursued, it is crucial to have a skilled appellate attorney to navigate the complex appeals process effectively.

Why Should I Hire Paré & Associates for My Case?

The attorneys at Paré & Associates are seasoned and successful litigators with a strong track record of trial victories.  We take pride in our history of success and continually refine our litigation skills through active practice throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.  Our attorneys have broad experience in handling trials before judges and juries, as well as in mediations and binding arbitrations, which are a cost-effective and efficient alternative for resolving disputes.

If you would like to know whether you have a valid case or need to defend against one, contact our Germantown, MD office to schedule an initial consultation.  We’re here to assist you and address any questions you may have.  Call Paré & Associates, LLC today at (301) 962-2492 for a free consultation.