Filing a civil lawsuit is not a decision to take lightly. Whether you’re dealing with a breach of contract, a personal injury, a property dispute, or another form of civil harm, pursuing legal action can be a powerful way to seek justice and resolution but it also comes with responsibilities, time commitments, and personal consequences that many people don’t fully consider at the outset.
At The Law Offices of Delton Barnes, we work with individuals across North Carolina who are ready to stand up for their rights, but who also want to do so with clarity and confidence. If you’re thinking about filing a civil suit, here’s what you should know before taking that next step.
Understand What Makes a Strong Case
Before filing any lawsuit, it’s important to assess whether your case is legally viable. Civil lawsuits typically arise from a legal wrong such as negligence, breach of contract, or violation of rights that resulted in some form of measurable harm. But not every frustration or unfair situation qualifies for a lawsuit. To have a strong case, you must be able to demonstrate:
- That the other party had a legal obligation or duty
- That they failed to meet that obligation
- That their failure directly caused you harm
- That the harm is measurable in terms of money, property, or rights
This is where experienced legal counsel makes a difference. At our firm, we don’t just file lawsuits to “see what happens”, we work with you to build a clear picture of liability, damages, and legal standing before you ever walk into court. That saves you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Be Prepared for the Time Commitment
Many people imagine civil lawsuits as quick, decisive events but the reality is often more drawn-out. Depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to settle, a civil lawsuit in North Carolina can take several months or even years from start to finish.
Once your complaint is filed, the court process includes multiple phases: pleadings, discovery (where evidence is exchanged), motion hearings, potential mediation, and if needed, a trial. Each step requires paperwork, deadlines, and preparation. You’ll likely need to gather documents, respond to interrogatories, sit for a deposition, and appear in court.
This process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re juggling work, family, or health issues. That’s why we provide thorough case management and communication throughout. We take on the legal heavy lifting so that you can stay focused on your life while still protecting your rights.
Know the Costs and Potential Risks
One of the most common questions we hear is: “How much is this going to cost me?” That’s a fair concern. Filing fees, court costs, expert witness fees, and attorney time all add up. While many civil cases settle out of court, which can reduce the overall cost, there’s no guarantee.
Depending on the type of case, you might be eligible for a contingency arrangement (where legal fees come from a percentage of the winnings), or you might pay a flat or hourly fee. We’re always transparent about fees and timelines before we begin.
It’s also important to consider the risk of a counterclaim. In some cases, the other party may file a lawsuit against you in response. If your case is not well-documented or strategically sound, filing could expose you to more legal and financial risk than reward. That’s why we always evaluate the full picture before moving forward.
Understand the Emotional Toll
People often underestimate how emotionally taxing a civil lawsuit can be. You may be reliving an injury, betrayal, or financial hardship. The other party may try to discredit you. The back-and-forth can feel personal, even when it’s purely procedural.
Some days, you’ll feel like justice is around the corner. Other days, the delays or setbacks will test your patience. Our job isn’t just to represent you in court, it’s to guide and support you through the entire process with clarity and care.
When you work with The Law Offices of Delton Barnes, we give you more than just legal strategy. We provide level-headed advice, regular updates, and the kind of personal support that turns a stressful process into a manageable one.
Focus on the Outcome That Matters Most
Before filing a lawsuit, ask yourself what you really want from the outcome. Is it financial compensation? Is it holding someone accountable? Is it protecting your name or your rights? Civil litigation can be an effective tool for all of those goals but each one may shape how the case is approached and resolved.
Sometimes, negotiation or mediation is a faster, more private, and less stressful path to resolution. Other times, the courtroom is the only way to reach justice. We’ll talk you through all of your options and help you pursue the path that serves your best interests—not just legally, but personally and practically.
Lawsuits Aren’t Just Legal; They’re Personal
Filing a civil lawsuit isn’t just about facts and laws, it’s about your story, your goals, and your future. At The Law Offices of Delton Barnes, we help you make informed decisions from day one. We’ll walk you through the strengths and risks of your case, prepare you for every step of the process, and stand beside you until the matter is resolved.
If you’re considering filing a lawsuit in North Carolina, don’t go it alone. Schedule a consultation with our office today, and let’s talk about the smartest next move for you.
Your Trusted Legal Partner
The Law Offices of Delton W. Barnes proudly serves the Cleveland, Gaston, and Lincoln Counties in North Carolina. Our team will empower you with expert legal counsel and unwavering support. Whether it’s a business dispute, personal injury, landlord-tenant disputes, or another conflict, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step.
Call, 704-406-9416 and contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.