Filing a lawsuit is a big step. It means signing up for months (and maybe even years) of mediation and/or litigation. Regardless of the outcome of your case, lawsuits can be very demanding of your time, energy, and your resources. Filing a lawsuit is absolutely essential in certain situations, but it is important to enter the process with your eyes wide open to all of the different consequences and implications. The team at Deputy & Mizell LLC is here to help you fully prepare for the process by reminding you of these simple steps to take before filing a lawsuit.
1. Check To See If The Statute Of Limitations Has Expired
Before you do anything else, you should check to see if you are still within the legal time limit to submit your case. Once the statute of limitations has expired, you will no longer be able to file your lawsuit. The statute of limitations varies greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the type of case in question, so it is important to do your research or talk to an attorney in Tuscumbia, MO to find out if you still have time to submit your case.
2. Evaluate The Strength Of Your Case
Unfortunately, the fact that you feel very strongly about your case does not necessarily mean that you have the legal foundation to build a solid case. The legal system relies on facts, evidence, and written law; your emotions will not be able to convince the judge or jury to take your side. Before filing a lawsuit, it is important to evaluate the legal strength of your case so you can determine whether or not it is worth taking to court.
3. Locate (And Document) Your Evidence
Passionately advocating your position will not help you win your case – you have to submit hard-hitting evidence if you want to convince a judge and jury to take your side. Documents, witnesses, and recordings are great examples of solid evidence. Before you file a lawsuit, take some time to identify and document any and all evidence you have to support your position. Getting organized ahead of time will make things much, much easier in the long run.
4. Be Honest With Yourself About The Commitment
Taking your case to court may seem like the only viable solution, but it is important that you take a moment to be honest with yourself about the time, energy, and resources that lawsuits require. Are you willing to commit to the time and potential stress involved? The team at our central Missouri law firm will do everything in our power to ensure that the process is a stress-free as possible, but it is nevertheless critical that you be honest with yourself about whether or not you are willing to commit to your case.
Give Us A Call To Get Started!
Filing a lawsuit at the Lake of the Ozarks is a big decision. If you have decided that you wish to pursue your case, the next step is to find a qualified attorney to represent you. Our team of experienced attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks would be happy to assist you with your case.
