How does a court case work?

In Texas, court cases usually start when a person or organization files a legal action, called a complaint, with the court. The complaint outlines the claim a person or organization is making and why they believe they should win their case. The complaint is then served to the other side (the defendant), who then has a certain amount of time to file an answer to the complaint. After the answers have been filed, the court may hold a pretrial conference where the parties agree on certain issues in the case or work on settlement options. If the case is not settled at this point, it will proceed to trial. At trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments. Witnesses may testify, and the jury, or judge in cases without a jury, is then asked to decide whether the defendant has violated the law or did whatever it is they are being charged with. At the end of the trial, the jury or judge delivers a verdict. If the defendant is found guilty, the judge will then decide the sentence. Depending on the case, this may include payment of money or some other form of relief. If the defendant is found not guilty, the plaintiff will be unable to receive any compensation or damages from the defendant.

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