How to File a Civil Lawsuit in Texas
Filing a civil lawsuit in Texas is a pretty straightforward process. Once the party filing the lawsuit has hired an attorney, the attorney and the court will take care of the rest of the work. When a person files a civil lawsuit against another person or entity, he is typically seeking financial retribution. Litigation is an expensive process for all parties involved, which is why most civil lawsuits in Texas are settled before they ever make it to court. The defendant will usually concede by making an offer to the plaintiff outside of court to avoid the costs of hiring a defense lawyer.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Search for a lawyer to represent you. Check local business listings in print or online. Look for lawyers experienced with cases similar to yours. For example, if you've been injured, seek out personal injury lawyers. If you've been unlawfully evicted, seek out real estate lawyers.
-
2
List names and numbers of lawyers you think would be good to handle your lawsuit. Ask each lawyer how much their services will cost, including any consultation fees. Explain why you want to file a civil lawsuit, then ask if that is a case they would be interested in. Schedule a consultation with the lawyer(s) you think could best handle your case.
-
-
3
Hire a lawyer to represent you. After your consultations, choose one to represent you and enter an agreement with them.
-
4
File a petition or "complaint" with the court. Once you hire your lawyer, she will meet with you either in person or over the phone to discuss the details she will need to provide the court, such as why you are filing a civil lawsuit and why the person or entity you are suing is at fault. Your lawyer will then file the complaint and request that the court takes the appropriate course of action.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
A civil lawsuit has to be filed within a certain time frame to meet the statute of limitations. The statue of limitations will vary based on the case and circumstances.
If the dollar amount you are suing for is less than $5,000, consider filing your lawsuit in small claims court.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
