Civil Litigation

Civil Litigation Attorneys

Civil litigation encompasses legal disputes between individuals, businesses, financial institutions, insurers, property owners, employers, municipalities, and other parties.

Black Ballard McDonald P.C. maintains a broad civil litigation practice and represents clients in both the prosecution and defense of civil claims.

Our attorneys handle civil matters involving insurance defense, personal injury claims, contracts, liens and lien foreclosures, property disputes, damage claims, employment matters, real estate taxation, forcible entry and detainer proceedings, and other general civil disputes.

Handling Civil Disputes

A civil lawsuit may involve several stages before a matter reaches trial.

• Investigating the facts surrounding a dispute
• Evaluating potential claims and defenses
• Reviewing contracts, correspondence, financial records, and other evidence
• Preparing and responding to pleadings
• Conducting written discovery
• Taking and defending depositions
• Preparing and responding to motions
• Negotiating potential settlements
• Preparing cases for trial
• Representing clients during trial
• Handling post-trial proceedings and appeals

Some disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or other forms of alternative dispute resolution. Others require a court to determine the parties' rights.

Business and Contract Litigation

Contract disagreements can arise over payment, performance, interpretation of contractual terms, or an alleged failure by one party to fulfill its obligations.

Our attorneys represent clients in contract disputes and other commercial matters when negotiation alone does not resolve the disagreement.

Property and Lien Litigation

The firm's civil litigation practice also includes disputes involving real property, liens, lien foreclosures, possession of property, and other property-related claims.

Local Counsel in Southern Illinois

Black Ballard McDonald P.C. frequently serves as local counsel for attorneys, businesses, insurers, and other organizations involved in litigation in Southern Illinois.

Outside attorneys and organizations may benefit from working with local counsel familiar with the courts, procedures, and legal community in the region.

Civil Appeals

When a civil matter continues beyond the trial court, our appellate attorneys can provide representation during the appellate process. The firm's experience in both trial and appellate litigation allows us to assist clients through multiple stages of a civil dispute.