What is the typical timeline of a business litigation case?

A typical timeline of a business litigation case in California can vary widely and depends on the specifics of the case. Generally, most cases start with a demand letter that outlines the dispute and the desired resolution and is sent to the opposing party. If the dispute cannot be resolved without litigation, the complaining party will then file a complaint and summons with the court and serve them to the defendant. The defendant then has 30 days to file an answer to the complaint, which includes their own version of the dispute and any defenses they may choose to raise. After the answer is filed, both parties will begin the discovery process. This includes collecting and exchanging all relevant documents, witness interviews, and depositions. This process can take anywhere from a few months up to a year or longer depending on the complexities of the case. Once the discovery process is completed, the parties can then settle their dispute or proceed to trial. If the parties choose to settle, an agreement is drafted and submitted for court approval. If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute, the court will set a trial date. A trial typically takes a few days and could result in an award of damages or other relief for the prevailing party. After a judgment is entered by the court, either party can appeal the court’s decision to a higher court. This process can take anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on the size and complexity of the case. Ultimately, the actual timeline of a business litigation case varies widely and could take anywhere from several months to a few years.

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What is the typical timeline of a business litigation case?

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