{"id":368970,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:05","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/ten-things-to-think-about-lawsuits.html"},"modified":"2026-05-19T15:05:53","modified_gmt":"2026-05-19T20:05:53","slug":"ten-things-to-think-about-lawsuits","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/ten-things-to-think-about-lawsuits.html","title":{"rendered":"10 Common Fears About Lawsuits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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10 Common Fears About Lawsuits<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Susan Buckner, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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When you are suing or defending against a lawsuit, you may have good reason to be worried. The process can be complex and the stakes may be high. But understanding the fears of being sued or filing a lawsuit can give you a clearer sense of what to do next.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Dealing with a civil lawsuit may feel overwhelming. If you’re getting sued, it can seem like the world is out to get you. If you’re suing to get something owed to you, it’s frustrating. Things should be easier to handle than through the courts.<\/p>\n

When you’re in this situation and find yourself thinking these things, take a moment to remember why lawsuits happen and what you can do to speed the process along.<\/p>\n

This article will address some of the common fears people face before a lawsuit. But if you have specific questions or concerns about a case, take them to a civil litigation attorney<\/a> for detailed advice and support.\u00a0<\/p>\n

1. The Reason for the Lawsuit Seems Ridiculous<\/h2>\n

Lawsuits can seem foolish, especially when someone else sues you. Most of the time, people don’t file a civil case<\/a> without reason. Even a small claims case has a filing fee, so few people bring cases without cause.<\/p>\n

Yet, ignoring a lawsuit or assuming a judge will see it your way might not be the best move. There may be laws and legal technicalities related to the case that aren’t apparent yet.<\/p>\n

Look at the complaint and see what you’re getting sued for. Then, get legal advice. The issue might be something you and the other person can work out without litigation.<\/p>\n

2. I Don’t Have an Attorney<\/h2>\n

People rarely think of finding an attorney until they’re involved in a court case. If you’re one of them, you’re in good company. Discuss your case with an attorney or legal professional if you’re unfamiliar with\u00a0business law<\/a>\u00a0or legal disputes.<\/p>\n

There are many places to get a legal referral. FindLaw can help you find the right lawyer for your case. You can browse litigation lawyers near you<\/a> to find an attorney who can help.<\/p>\n

3. I Didn’t Do Anything Wrong<\/h2>\n

A civil lawsuit is not about blame, as counter-intuitive as it may seem. Civil suits aim to make one party “whole” and correct monetary wrongs<\/a>. For instance, if someone is in a car accident, they may sue the other driver in a personal injury claim<\/a> to recover medical bills and property damage.<\/p>\n

You have the right to file a counterclaim<\/a> against the opposing party in your case. If you’re getting sued in a car accident, you can also file for damages you suffered.<\/p>\n

4. I Can’t Afford To Sue<\/h2>\n

Lawsuits are expensive. Whether you file the suit or are the one getting sued, legal actions are costly affairs.<\/p>\n

There are a few ways to reduce the costs if the case goes to court, such as:<\/p>\n