Litigation

Litigation is the process of pursuing or defending a legal claim through a court. Depending on the case, it may include pleadings, motions, discovery, trial, and appeal, but not every lawsuit reaches trial.

Example: In a federal civil lawsuit, a defendant may file a motion to dismiss, the parties may exchange evidence during discovery, and the court may resolve the dispute before trial or after a trial.

Common misconception: Litigation always ends with a jury verdict or a judge’s trial decision. Cases can end through settlement, dismissal, or other procedural outcomes before trial.

Sources: https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/court-role-and-structure; https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/litigation