What are the steps in a civil trial?

A civil trial is the judicial process through which a plaintiff seeks a legal remedy for a wrong done to them by a defendant. In Michigan, a civil trial consists of seven steps: 1. Filing the case – The plaintiff files a complaint in the trial court outlining the facts and theories of the case. The defendant is then served with a summons and the complaint. 2. Pre-trial procedure – Both sides will examine and discuss the issues of the case before the trial begins. This includes filing and responding to motions, and engaging in discovery activities such as interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and depositions. 3. Jury selection – In Michigan, the plaintiff may elect to have a jury trial. If they do, a jury will be selected from a court-administered list of qualified jurors. 4. Opening statements – After the jury is assembled, the plaintiff has the opportunity to present their case by making an opening statement that outlines their version of the facts and their legal theories. The defendant then makes their opening statement. 5. Witnesses and evidence – Both sides then present witnesses and evidence to support their respective versions of the facts and legal theories. The plaintiff goes first, followed by the defendant. 6. Closing arguments – After all of the witnesses and evidence are presented, each side has the opportunity to make a concluding argument as to why the jury should decide in their favor. 7. Verdict – After the jury deliberates, they reach a verdict and the trial court renders judgment on the case.

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What are the steps in a civil trial?

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