Deadlines are crucial in civil litigation and missing one can jeopardize your case. For example, in some jurisdictions, car accident claims must be filed within two years of the incident. Always verify deadlines specific to your case and jurisdiction to protect your rights. Seek legal advice for clarity.
Contracts often have statutory time limits for enforcement. For instance, breach of contract claims in Ontario must be filed within two years from discovery. Missing this can result in a lost claim.
Filing fees are mandatory for initiating most legal actions. For example, in Alberta, a small claims filing fee may range from $100 to $200, depending on the claim amount. Check the fee schedule in your jurisdiction.
Properly serving legal documents is required for court proceedings. For instance, in family law cases, affidavits must be served personally in many jurisdictions. Incorrect service can delay or dismiss your case.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent costly mistakes. For example, an immigration lawyer can ensure all deadlines and forms are correctly completed, reducing delays and rejections.
Parties must mitigate damages to strengthen their case. For example, a landlord must try to re-rent a unit if a tenant breaks their lease, rather than leaving it empty to increase damages.
Honest disclosure of finances is mandatory in family law disputes. For example, failing to disclose assets during a divorce can lead to penalties and loss of credibility in court.
Filing in the correct jurisdiction is critical. For instance, a tenant-landlord dispute in British Columbia should be filed with the Residential Tenancy Branch, not the provincial court.
Mediation often saves time and costs before trial. For example, small claims courts in Ontario may require mandatory mediation sessions to resolve disputes efficiently.
Courts may award costs to the winning party. For example, in Alberta, a successful plaintiff in civil litigation can recover part of their legal expenses if the court rules in their favour.