Civil Court Cases
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
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When you sue someone for damages, such as in an assault or defamation suit, you are engaging in a civil court action. The legal justice system is divided into two main courts: criminal and civil. Criminal courts try defendants for crimes against the state (hence, "The People" of a given state are the named plaintiffs), while civil courts try cases alleging wrongs by one party against another. Also, criminal convictions result in fines, incarceration, public service, or other such sentences, while civil cases determine whether the defendant is financially liable for the plaintiff's injuries. FindLaw's section on Civil Court Cases covers the stages of a civil case, provides a practical guide to lawsuits, and offers other information and resources related to civil court cases.
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Civil Court Cases Articles
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Can I (Still) Sue "Big Tobacco" or a Nicotine Product Company?
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Can I Sue My Employer for Violating the Family and Medical Leave Act?
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Can I Sue Quick Car Maintenance Services Like Oil Changes, Tires, and Brakes?
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Can I Sue a Code Enforcement Officer, Investigator, or Inspector?
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Can I Sue a Home Supply Store for Bad Products or Bad Advice?
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Can I Sue a University or Online College for False Promises?
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Can I Sue an Artificial Intelligence Company for AI Copyright Violations?
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Can I Sue an Online University for Online Degree or Classes?
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Can I Sue for Being Kicked Out of a Club, Neighborhood, or Online Group?
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Can I Sue the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)?
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Resolution Before Trial: Settlement / Alternative Dispute Resolution
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Resolving Online Seller Disputes (Like eBay): Do I Need a Lawyer?