Navigating the Civil Litigation Process in Massachusetts: Your Comprehensive Guide

Your Roadmap to Understanding Massachusetts Civil Litigation

Are you contemplating legal action or find yourself facing a lawsuit in Massachusetts? If so, you're likely treading unfamiliar ground, filled with complexities and uncertainties. Our aim is to provide clarity and guidance throughout this process. In this article and its associated pages, we'll simplify and demystify the Massachusetts civil litigation process, empowering you to make well-informed decisions every step of the way.

Initiating a Lawsuit: Filing a Complaint

The journey begins with the filing of a complaint in court. The responsibility falls on the plaintiff to ensure the proper service of the summons and complaint to the defendant. These documents kickstart the defendant's obligation to respond, typically within 20 days from service.The purpose of the complaint is twofold: (i) to present the facts supporting the plaintiff's legal claim and (ii) to outline the legal claims being pursued. While the complaint should contain all essential facts, it doesn't need to include every detail relevant to the dispute.

Responding as a Defendant: the Answer or Motion to Dismiss

Within 20 days of receiving the summons and complaint, the defendant must provide a response. Although this deadline can often be extended through agreement between attorneys, it's crucial to act promptly when served. Missing this response deadline could lead to a default judgment in favor of the plaintiff, potentially resulting in court-ordered damages against you.

Usually, the response takes the form of an Answer. The answer's requirements are straightforward: the defendant must admit or deny the factual claims made in the complaint and present any available legal defenses, known as affirmative defenses. Examples of affirmative defenses include the statute of limitations, legal flaws in the plaintiff's claim, or the plaintiff's failure to assert crucial facts. This document is also where the Defendant could raise any claims they have against the Plaintiff, called "counterclaims."

In some instances, the defendant might opt to file a Motion to Dismiss. However, it's essential to remember that, on a motion to dismiss, the court assumes all of the plaintiff's presented facts are true. Therefore, this approach is suitable primarily for legal issues, such as statute of limitations or inherent flaws in the claim, which the court can decide without needing to ascertain the truth of the claimed facts.

The Discovery Phase: Exploring the Facts

Following the filing of the complaint and response, both parties can initiate the discovery process. Discovery is a fundamental part of litigation, permitting parties to ask questions, request documents, and conduct depositions related to any pertinent facts in the dispute.

Regardless of which side you're on, expect to gather and furnish relevant documents, assist your attorney in responding to written questions (interrogatories), and provide deposition testimony. Further details on each of these aspects can be found in our dedicated page on the discovery process.

Pursuing Summary Judgment: Challenging the Evidence

Upon the completion of discovery, it's common for a defendant to file a Motion for Summary Judgment. Unlike a Motion to Dismiss, at this stage, the defendant can challenge the plaintiff's evidence. However, the court cannot issue judgment if material facts are in dispute. To succeed on summary judgment, the defendant must demonstrate either the absence of evidence on essential elements of the plaintiff's claims or that, based on undisputed facts, one or more legal claims are untenable.

The Trial Stage: Presenting Your Case

Assuming the court doesn't grant a Motion for Summary Judgment or if one isn't filed, the next step is the trial. The specifics will vary depending on the court, case nature, and whether the parties opt for a bench trial (before a judge) or a jury trial.

In general, the trial entails both parties presenting evidence for their claims and defenses through witnesses and documents. The plaintiff goes first, with each witness subject to examination by the plaintiff's attorney and cross-examination by the defendant's attorney. Documents supporting the claim may be entered into evidence, often through a witness who can authenticate them.

Following the plaintiff's case, the defendant may request a directed verdict, employing a similar analysis as a summary judgment motion but based on trial evidence. This underscores the importance of ensuring all necessary evidence for the legal theory is presented before the end of the plaintiff's case.

After the plaintiff concludes, the defendant has the opportunity to present its evidence similarly.

Once all evidence is presented, both sides deliver closing arguments. In a jury trial, the judge instructs the jury on the law, leading to deliberation. In a bench trial, the judge may request additional briefings or take the matter under advisement, issuing a written decision after the trial concludes.

Need Help With a Civil Lawsuit?

Call (781) 784-2322

Schedule a Free Information Call

Settlement Options: A High Likelihood

It's worth noting that approximately 97% of civil cases settle before reaching trial. Factors contributing to settlements include rising litigation costs and the inherent uncertainty of entrusting a final decision to a judge or jury, whose knowledge is based solely on what the parties present in a trial. You can read more about some considerations affecting a settlement decision here.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the Civil Litigation Process in Massachusetts with greater confidence and understanding. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Questions About a Pending or Potential Lawsuit?

Our Solutions Roadmap is a quick and easy way to share the details of what you are facing and receive preliminary feedback from a member of our team. Use the button below to get started- it is 100% confidential and 100% free.

Tell Us What's On Your Mind

How Our Legal Team Can Help

As experienced lawyers, we provide you with comprehensive support throughout the Massachusetts civil litigation process. Our in-depth knowledge and strategic guidance empower you to navigate legal challenges effectively, ensuring your rights are protected and your case is handled with expertise. You can use the button below to schedule a call back from a member of our team, or give us a call at 781-784-2322.