If, When & Where to File a Lawsuit

If you're in a serious dispute with someone, you may consider filing a lawsuit to get it resolved. But that's a big step, and before you take it you'll need to know whether your case is worth suing over, how and where you would file the paperwork, and what is involved in pursuing a case. Find answers here to common questions about lawsuits.

Before you file a lawsuit, you need to decide a few things about your potential case.

A lawsuit should be your last resort. Before you sue, talk with your opponent and try to negotiate a mutually beneficial compromise.

Settling your personal injury case may be as easy as writing an effective demand letter.

Before you sue, make sure your opponent is solvent so you can collect what you're owed.

Find out whether you need to file your lawsuit in federal or state court.

Before you file a lawsuit, be sure the court has power over the individual or business that you want to sue.

If you're going to bring a lawsuit in state court, this article will help you determine the proper county in which to file.

If you want to sue a Web-based business, you'll need to know where to file the lawsuit.

Filing a lawsuit on time is critical. Check out our FAQ for information on timing issues related to suing and being sued.

Know the time limits for filing a lawsuit (statutes of limitations) in your state.

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Demand Letter

This easy-to-use letter is the first step in the formal process of resolving disputes over property or money.
If you're in a dispute in which both sides claim the other's at fault, use this form to release each other from future claims.

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