Complex Litigation

What is complex litigation?

In order to understand complex litigation, we must first understand what litigation is. Litigation is the process by which counsel for one party to a lawsuit intends to integrate their actions with anticipated events and reactions to achieve the overall goal of the litigation. Whereas complex litigation refers to a particular kind of civil case that involves multiple attorneys working together and/or multiple parties being represented. The plaintiffs and defendants can be geographically spread out and the litigation can require more expert witnesses, a lengthy discovery process, and intricate testimonies to determine causation. The litigation usually covers complex subject matter requiring more procedural complexity and more complicated damage determinations. 

Oftentimes, complex litigation involves large companies or corporations that have a team of numerous attorneys working to protect their interests. Complex litigation can range from contract disputes with contractors to goods agreements across state borders. These types of lawsuits become very complex and that is why having a firm with extensive resources and access to numerous expert witnesses is important. This process is very costly to companies, in both time and money. Because massive amounts of money are at stake, it is important to reduce complex litigation in the best way people; by trusting a lawyer with extensive experience who has handled complex lawsuits similar to your own. The Cochran Firm has the resources and experience to hold these large entities accountable and represent the interests of everyday people. 

What can I expect during my case?

Complex litigation cases can become complicated very quickly. So it is important to know what to expect during the process, from start to finish. Complex litigation cases can be broken down into six specific stages:

1. Investigation - The investigation involves an in-depth look into the facts of the case and a cautious review of all evidence that is required throughout settlement negotiations or a trial.
2. Pleadings - Pleadings involve outlining what will be confronted in the case. Both parties must prepare a pleading but the plaintiff must be the first to file, which is named a complaint. 
3. Discovery - The discovery is the most time-consuming part of the process involving the trade of information that is relevant to the case. This is through depositions, interrogatories, and subpoenas.
4. Pretrial proceedings - Pretrial proceedings consist of meetings and motions between each party and the trial judge dealing with the case.
5. Potential settlements or trial - Both parties typically prefer settlements, where they are able to come to a mutual agreement without having to go to court. However, should the case result in a trial, the judge determines what information will be presented and heard in the courtroom.
6. Appeal - If either party is not satisfied with the court ruling, they can start the appeal process, where the case will be reviewed with the intention the decision will change or be reversed.

Because these cases become so complex, you must have an experienced lawyer in complex litigation to trust. If your company is facing a complex lawsuit today and you need an experienced attorney with expertise in complex litigation, we’re here for you. Contact The Cochran Firm today for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.