Civil litigation is the process by which disputes between individuals, businesses, or organisations are resolved through the legal system. Unlike criminal proceedings, which involve the state prosecuting individuals for offences against society, civil litigation deals with conflicts between private parties, such as contract disputes, personal injury claims, or property disputes.
Civil litigation typically begins with one party (the plaintiff or claimant) filing a claim or lawsuit against another party (the defendant or respondent). The claim outlines the nature of the dispute, the legal grounds for the action, and the desired remedy or compensation sought.

Once a claim is filed, the defendant has the opportunity to respond and present their defence. This initial stage often involves the exchange of evidence and documents between the parties, a process known as discovery.
If the parties are unable to reach a settlement through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or arbitration, the case may proceed to trial. During the trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments before a judge or a judge and jury, depending on the nature of the case.

In civil litigation, the standard of proof is lower than in criminal cases. Instead of requiring proof beyond reasonable doubt, the plaintiff or claimant must establish their case on the balance of probabilities, meaning that their version of events is more likely than not to be true.

The outcomes of civil litigation can vary depending on the specific case. Common remedies include monetary damages, injunctions (court orders to stop or require certain actions), or specific performance (requiring a party to fulfil their contractual obligations).

While civil litigation can be a lengthy and costly process, it serves an essential function in upholding the rule of law and providing a mechanism for resolving disputes peacefully and fairly. However, it’s important to note that litigation should often be considered a last resort, as alternative dispute resolution methods can often provide more efficient and cost-effective solutions.