Civil Lawsuits

If you have been sued for more than $10,000, we consider it a “civil limited case.” Although the plaintiff (the person or company that sued) either could not take you to small claims court (because of the type of case) or chose NOT to file in small claims court, it can be tried in a civil litigation case, because of the interest or damages that can be raised.
This is common in credit card debt or other collection lawsuits where you may owe less than $6,500, but the credit card company prefers to take you to court in a limited civil case and not small claims.
There are many reasons companies may prefer to sue you in a general civil court, and if that happens, you have to defend yourself in civil court and cannot ask to have the case transferred to a small claims court.
If you are filing a limited civil case or an unlimited civil case,. There are many documents required and court rules to follow. If you do not have a lawyer, you will have to act as your lawyer. And, to do so, we can provide you with instructions, information, and court procedures. The court cannot help you or give you a break just because you are not a lawyer and do not know the law. If you do not follow the many court rules, it could cost you valuable time and money.


Civil court cases address private disputes seeking monetary damages.
Key differences exist between limited and unlimited jurisdiction cases regarding complexity and potential judgments.

What is Limited Civil?

Limited civil jurisdiction handles less complex civil lawsuits. Attributes include:

📚 Damages claims exceeding small claims limits
📚 Typically up to $25,000 in controversy
📚 Streamlined procedures compared to higher courts
📚 Can involve debt collection, contract disputes
📚 Often do not require attorneys

Unlimited Civil

Unlimited civil jurisdiction involves increased complexity and stakes:

📚 Claims exceed $25,000
📚 No cap on potential judgments
📚 Involves substantial discovery
📚 Depositions, interrogatories
📚 Usually requires attorney representation
📚 Longer resolution timeline – over a year

 

 

 

 

If You Are Sued

Steps if faced with a civil complaint:
 

 

📚 Carefully review complaint allegations
📚 Meet all procedural deadlines
📚 Consider consultation for next steps
📚 File formal written response

If You Are Suing

To initiate a civil case pro se:

📚 Research exact causes of action
📚 Carefully prepare initial complaint
📚 Follow all rules of the court
📚 Arrange for proper service
📚 Prepare to invest significant time

Getting Legal Help

Civil litigation assistance options:

📚 Initial case review and planning session
📚 Coaching on procedural rules and timelines
📚 Document drafting and filing help
📚 General advice and tips for self-representation

While simpler limited civil cases can potentially be handled pro se, unlimited cases often benefit from professional legal representation navigating complex procedures.