Lawsuits are a complicated legal process, full of unpleasant surprises and frustrating delays. Because of the many different parties involved, litigation schedules are difficult to predict and sometimes out of the parties’ control. However, there are a few key steps that usually take place in the same order. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid getting caught up in the midst of a lawsuit.

A lawsuit starts with a complaint. This is a written statement made by the plaintiff that states the wrongs that the defendant committed. There are two main parts to the complaint: the charge and the issue. A charge is a law that police believe the defendant violated. A charge to the jury is a document that a judge uses to give instructions to the jury.

The length of a lawsuit depends on the issues involved, the amount of discovery required, and the court’s scheduling. While the timing of discovery is usually decided by the parties, the court can also set the trial date. The court will then hear the evidence that the parties present during the trial. It is important to keep in mind that the length of a lawsuit varies by state.

In personal injury lawsuits, the process can take six months to several years, depending on the amount of money at stake. It is also possible for witnesses to be called at any point during the litigation. If the case is settled, the defendant’s representatives have up to 21 days to pay up. In New York, bankrupt insurance companies can still be held liable for damages.