Understanding The Charges
Civil lawsuits usually involve private disputes between persons or organizations. For example:
- Contract disputes (e.g., employee groups, professional associations, wills, probate, estate matters.
- Injuries sustained in a car accident. See also Personal Injury.
- Neglect of duty.
- Residential evictions.
- Wrongful terminations.

The goal of every civil lawsuit is to get you the compensation you deserve. A civil case is usually instigated by a private party—a person or business who has allegedly suffered some kind of damage. In contrast, a criminal case is brought by a prosecutor or other attorney representing the government.
Civil lawsuits generally proceed through distinct steps: pleadings, discovery, trial, and possibly an appeal. However, parties can halt this process by voluntarily settling at any time. Most cases settle before reaching trial. Arbitration is sometimes another alternative to a trial.
Besides negotiating disputes between persons, Michael J. Beatrice has also represented employee groups and professional associations in negotiating public employment contracts. He has an excellent track record getting his clients the compensation they deserve.
Sample Cases: Civil Lawsuits
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