Lawsuits are a legal way of solving a problem with another person when that person cannot be reasoned with in any other way. If they owe you money or have wronged you in some way that they have not compensated you for, then you might want to file a lawsuit against them.

Lawsuits are not meant to be ways to get “extra cash”, but are very serious legal proceedings that can help you get what is rightfully due to you if people are standing in your way.

First of all, it is a good idea to try to settle the dispute with the person/business/entity before you file a lawsuit. Give them a chance to make things right - if they refuse, then you have grounds for a lawsuit. If they offer you a settlement, make sure that it is satisfactory before accepting it! Once you accept a settlement, you cannot sue (in most cases). You can also try to hire a mediator to help you settle your dispute. They are not cheap, but they ARE cheaper than a lawsuit!

Next, consult a lawyer to ask them what you should do to proceed. Your lawyer can give you valuable information about how or if you should proceed with the lawsuit. If your lawsuit is over an amount of money worth less than $5,000, you will probably file it in small claims court. However, if it is a case involving child custody, a house, or some other larger amount of money, then you will take it to either county or superior court.

Make sure that your lawyer helps you file the lawsuit, and make sure that you do not wait too long to do it. If you wait too long, the lawsuit may not be viable! Also, get familiar with the court system in your area, and make sure that you understand the statute of limitations before proceeding.