Civil Litigation Lawyer Arlington VA

If you ever find yourself being served with a lawsuit, you need to find an experienced civil litigation lawyer in Arlington VA right away. While most people would understandably find being involved in a criminal proceeding very troubling, getting dragged into a civil lawsuit can be every bit as stressful and disconcerting.  An experienced civil litigation lawyer Arlington VA will know the best way to navigate this stressful situation and put you in the best possible position for a favorable result.

A good civil litigation lawyer representing Arlington VA residents knows that civil litigation can come in a variety of forms.  Often, civil litigation involves disputes between people regarding money. For example, if two parties sign a contract and then one party does not believe the other party is living up to his obligations under that contract, he could file a lawsuit to recover the money he thinks he lost.  Irrespective of whether you are the person who wants to sue or you are the person who is being sued, it is important to have a good civil litigation lawyer Arlington VA to help you.

For example, did you know that if you are served with a lawsuit in Virginia and fail to respond within 21 days, you can automatically lose?  This is true even if the lawsuit filed against you is completely made up! In other words, you can’t just ignore a lawsuit—if you are sued, hire a good civil litigation lawyer in Arlington VA to immediately to protect your rights.

However, it’s not just the person who is being sued who must act quickly.  In fact, in Virginia, there are very strict and specific time limits within which you must file your lawsuit.  For example, even if you have a slam dunk claim against another person, if you wait too long to sue that person, you may miss your chance.  And this is true even if your allegations are true. So, if you think you have a basis to sue another person, it is always a good idea to consult right away with an experienced civil litigation lawyer Arlington VA residents turn to.  Even if you ultimately decide not to pursue your case, it is often helpful to at least know your rights under the law.

In addition to lawsuits regarding money, other types of civil litigation cases include employment discrimination suits, personal injury suits, divorces, custody matters, and pretty much any other legal proceeding that does not involve criminal charges.  A civil litigation lawyer Arlington VA relies on will understand the various types of claims that can be brought, the possible defenses to those claims, and the time limits within which to bring them. So don’t delay! If you think you may need to sue someone, or if you have been sued by someone, immediately contact a civil litigation lawyer in Arlington VA so you can be advised of your rights and be prepared for the case.

What Is a Contingency Fee?

Too often, Virginia residents hesitate to seek the guidance and support of an experienced civil litigation lawyer in Arlington VA because they believe that in doing so, they will incur significant legal bills. This is not always the case. In fact, oftentimes the individuals and families most in need of legal assistance are able to retain the services of an Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer for far less money than they originally anticipated. Some cases are even treated as “contingency” cases by the attorneys who handle them. At their most basic, contingency fees are those that are only charged to a client in the event that a case is successfully settled or won at trial.

Contingent Fees: The Basics

When an Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer makes his or her fees contingent, it means that their payment is not owed by a client unless a specific condition is met. Sometimes, fees are contingent upon a “win” calculated by a certain settlement or trial judgment threshold. Some attorneys will not charge fees unless the legal win covers legal expenses plus a certain additional amount of damages. At other times, an Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer will charge contingency fees based upon the concept of profit margin. They may charge clients for basic services (like filing fees) regardless of a case’s outcome but will not charge clients in an amount that results in a profit for the firm unless their clients win.

Not all areas of the law support contingency fees. In fact, divorce matters generally cannot be represented on a contingent basis because the law explicitly forbids such an arrangement. Some attorneys can make a judgment call as to whether or not to charge fees on a contingent basis. Many Arlington VA civil litigation lawyers choose to represent certain clients on a contingency basis, depending on the circumstances surrounding their case.

When an Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer charges contingent fees, they help to empower clients who might not otherwise be able to justify filing suit against an entity that has harmed them. If the case is not successful, the costs to the client remains low. If the case wins big, so do both the client and attorney in question. For obvious reasons, not every case can be represented on a contingent basis or law firms would quickly go out of business. It is therefore important not to expect such an arrangement from every attorney in regards to every conceivable suit.

Legal Guidance Is Available

If you have questions or concerns about how legal fees are calculated specifically or operate generally, please consider scheduling a consultation with an experienced Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer today. Fees are often quite variable depending upon the unique legal situation a client is grappling with. In addition, different attorneys handle fees in different ways simply because they deal with variation in how expensive their practice is to run and how expensive it is to take on certain legal challenges on behalf of their clients. The only way to know for sure how a specific firm handles fee-related matters is to ask. Please consider scheduling a consultation with our Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer today in order to discuss your questions and concerns related to both billing specifically and representation generally.

Injuries You May Experience as the Result of a Personal Injury

When a person has been injured in an accident, they may choose to move forward by taking legal action with the help of an Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer. A personal injury accident stands to yield devastating outcomes for a victim. There are a number of injuries and losses that a victim may face following an accident. Because of this, the physical and financial impact in the wake of an accident can be significant. In order to obtain the maximum compensation for your accident, obtaining our Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer at May Law, LLP is crucial. They have the ability to assist you through the process so that you are able to obtain the compensation that you deserve.

Arlington Civil Litigation Infographic

Common Injuries

Whether you are facing a motor vehicle accident, premises liability, or workplace accident case, there are a number of common injuries you stand to face. Although injuries can certainly range in severity, they have the ability to deliver a long standing impact to victims. Common injuries that Arlington VA civil litigation lawyers have helped to pursue damages for include:

• Brain Injuries
• Fractured Bones
• Strains or Sprains
• Back Injuries
• Internal Injuries

If you believe that another party was at fault for their actions, a civil litigation lawyer that Arlington VA residents recommend can assist you by legally strategizing your case to have preponderance of evidence in order to prove your claim.

Treatment for Injuries

Medical treatment can be expensive, when coupled with other losses, the financial impact to an accident victim can be extensive. Following an accident, it’s important that you obtain medical treatment as soon as possible. Not only will you want to make sure that you receive the treatment you need, but that you produce medical documentation tying your injuries to the accident that you were in. Additionally, an experience Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer will tell you that it’s key to continue any treatments that were recommended to you by your medical provider, especially when enduring a personal injury case. This can prevent the defendant’s lawyers arguing that because you did not follow up on treatment recommendations, your injuries must not be as extensive as you are claiming.

Valuing Your Claim

When considering whether to take legal action, you are probably wondering what the value of your claim may be. This is one primary reason it’s important to work with a tenacious and reliable Arlington VA civil litigation lawyer. They can make sure that your claim is properly valued so that you do not settle your case for less than you deserve. Without knowing the specifics to a case, it’s nearly impossible for a civil litigation lawyer that Arlington VA residents trust to assign proper value to your claim. A lawyer will assess your damages when calculating how much compensation to ask for:

• Lost Wages
• Medical Bills
• Property Damage
• Pain and Suffering

Once we have carefully reviewed your damages and the factors surrounding your case, our firm can determine a value for your case while keeping your bottom lines in mind. A lawyer may prove themselves essential not only in assigning value to your case, but during the negotiation process with insurance companies.

Hire May Law, LLP Arlington VA Civil Litigation Lawyers

When a liable party can be held responsible for their negligence, it’s in your best interest to move forward with the assistance of a civil litigation lawyer that Arlington VA residents recommend. Civil litigation for personal injury cases can be rife with complexities, and most likely will involve insurance companies and lawyers. Facing this type of process can be contentious by nature as defense attorneys work to minimize your injuries and mitigate the compensation you may be entitled to. Working with May Law, LLP can provide you with the representation you deserve.

Lawyers at May Law, LLP include experienced attorneys who have handled numerous civil litigation matters on behalf of clients.  Please contact the Firm today to speak with a civil litigation lawyer in Arlington VA to set up a consultation regarding your case.

Civil Litigation FAQs

There are a number of different types of legal actions where having an Arlington, VA civil litigation lawyer advocating for you is highly advantageous to the outcome of your case. If you are facing any of the following legal actions, call May Law, LLP to find out how we can help.

What Are The Most Common Types Of Civil Litigation Cases?

Civil litigation refers to legal disputes between two or more parties that seek monetary damages or specific performance rather than criminal sanctions. Some of the most common types of civil litigation cases include:

• Contract Disputes: These involve disagreements over the terms or performance of a contract. Whether it’s a business contract, lease agreement, or employment contract, one party may claim the other has failed to fulfill their obligations, resulting in financial loss or damage. Resolution often requires interpreting the contract terms and deciding if a breach occurred.
• Personal Injury Claims: These are cases where one party seeks compensation for injuries caused by another party’s negligence or intentional actions. The most common personal injury claims involve car accidents, slip-and-falls, medical malpractice, and defective products. Victims may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Property Disputes: Property disputes can arise in various forms, such as disagreements between landlords and tenants, boundary disputes between neighbors, or issues related to inheritance. These cases often involve the interpretation of property ownership rights and related legal obligations, including eviction proceedings, foreclosure, and disputes over land titles or zoning.
• Employment Disputes: Employment-related disputes include wrongful termination, wage and hour claims, discrimination, and harassment. Employees may seek legal recourse for damages if they believe their rights have been violated by their employer, while employers may defend themselves against claims of unlawful practices or unfair treatment.

How Are Contract Disputes Handled In Civil Litigation?

Contract disputes are among the most frequent types of civil litigation cases. When a party believes another has not upheld their contractual obligations, the issue often escalates to litigation. In such cases, the court will assess whether a valid contract exists, whether there has been a breach and the resulting damages.

The process typically begins with the plaintiff filing a complaint, who claims that a breach of contract has occurred. The defendant then responds with a defense, and both parties may exchange evidence during discovery. This phase might include depositions, requests for documents, and written interrogatories. Sometimes, the parties may resolve the dispute through mediation or negotiation before trial.

If the case goes to trial, the judge or jury will decide whether a breach occurred and what damages should be awarded to the aggrieved party. If the contract is found to be valid and enforceable, the court can order specific performance (forcing the party to perform their obligations) or award monetary damages.

What Types Of Personal Injury Cases Are Common In Civil Litigation?

• Personal injury claims are common in civil litigation and arise when someone suffers harm due to another’s actions or negligence. Working with an Arlington civil litigation lawyer specializing in personal injury cases greatly improves your chances of getting the full compensation you deserve. The most frequent types of personal injury cases include:
• Motor Vehicle Accidents: These cases involve injuries sustained in car, truck, or motorcycle accidents. Liability is often determined by negligence (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence) and can involve complex insurance claims and legal proceedings.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: These cases occur when someone is injured due to hazardous conditions on another’s property, such as wet floors, uneven pavement, or inadequate lighting. Property owners or managers may be held liable if they failed to maintain safe conditions.
• Medical Malpractice: Medical professionals can be held liable for negligence if their actions deviate from accepted medical practices and cause harm to a patient. Examples include errors in surgery, misdiagnosis, and medication mistakes. In these cases, plaintiffs typically need expert testimony to prove the medical standard was violated.
•  Product Liability: If a defective product causes injury, the manufacturer, seller, or distributor can be held liable. Common claims involve defective cars, drugs, electronics, or household items that lead to accidents or health issues.

How Are Property Disputes Resolved In Civil Litigation?

Property disputes can involve various legal issues, from disagreements over land ownership to disputes between landlords and tenants. The resolution of such disputes often depends on the nature of the claim and the applicable property laws.

• Boundary Disputes: When neighbors disagree over the boundaries of their properties, they may need to present evidence such as surveys, deeds, or historical property records to establish ownership. Courts may issue orders to determine where property lines are drawn and whether encroachments have occurred.
• Landlord-Tenant Disputes: In cases involving rental agreements, tenants might file lawsuits for wrongful eviction, poor living conditions, or breach of contract, while landlords may sue for unpaid rent or damage to the property. Mediation is often encouraged before litigation, but if necessary, a court can determine who is responsible for the damages or issues in dispute.
• Foreclosure and Eviction: Landlords or mortgage lenders can initiate a foreclosure or eviction lawsuit if a tenant or homeowner fails to meet their financial obligations. These cases typically involve a legal process in which the homeowner or tenant is given the opportunity to resolve the issue before the court allows a property to be taken or the tenant removed.

Property disputes are often resolved through negotiation, but when litigation is necessary, courts will examine property documents, ownership history, and applicable laws to make a fair decision.

Arlington Civil Litigation Glossary

At May Law, LLP, we understand that civil litigation can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re filing a lawsuit or defending against one, having a trusted civil litigation lawyer in Arlington, VA, by your side is vital. Below, we’ve outlined key terms to help you better understand common aspects of civil litigation and how they might apply to your case.

Contract Disputes

Contract disputes arise when one party alleges that another has failed to uphold the terms of an agreement. These disagreements can range from business contracts and leases to employment agreements. For instance, if a vendor fails to deliver goods as promised, or if an employee breaches a confidentiality clause, a contract dispute may arise. We’ve handled cases where a contract’s language was ambiguous, and the resolution required careful analysis and strong negotiation. At May Law, LLP, we work diligently to clarify our clients’ positions and advocate for their rights under the law.

Contingency Fee

A contingency fee structure can make legal representation more accessible for clients who may not have the financial resources to pay upfront. Under this arrangement, a lawyer only gets paid if the case is successfully resolved, typically receiving a percentage of the settlement or judgment. This approach is commonly used in personal injury cases and allows clients to focus on their claims without the added worry of immediate legal costs. While not every case qualifies for a contingency fee, we carefully review each situation to determine if this option is appropriate.

Personal Injury Claims

Personal injury claims involve seeking compensation for harm caused by another party’s negligence or intentional actions. Examples include car accidents, medical malpractice, and slip-and-fall incidents. We’ve seen how these cases can impact our clients’ lives—not just physically, but emotionally and financially as well. Our goal is to secure fair compensation that addresses medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, helping our clients move forward after an injury.

Property Disputes

Property disputes encompass a wide range of disagreements over real estate, such as boundary issues, landlord-tenant conflicts, or ownership claims. For example, a property owner may find themselves in a dispute with a neighbor over a shared fence line or with a tenant regarding lease terms. These cases often require a deep understanding of property law and careful evaluation of deeds, contracts, and other legal documents. At May Law, LLP, we approach property disputes with thorough preparation to protect our clients’ interests.

Specific Performance

In some contract disputes, monetary compensation may not be sufficient. Specific performance is a legal remedy that compels a party to fulfill their obligations under a contract. This is particularly relevant in cases involving unique assets, such as real estate. For instance, if a seller refuses to transfer property after a valid contract is signed, the court may order specific performance to enforce the agreement. We’ve successfully pursued this remedy in cases where financial compensation alone would not address the harm done to our clients.

At May Law, LLP, we’ve been providing trusted legal representation throughout Arlington and Northern Virginia since 1995. If you’re involved in a civil litigation matter, let us help you protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can assist with your case.

May Law, LLP, Arlington Civil Litigation Lawyer

3033 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

How Can Your Law Firm Help?

If you are considering or facing legal action against another party, make sure you speak to an Arlington civil litigation lawyer first. Call May Law, LLP to find out what your best course of legal action is.