
EXPERIENCED CIVIL LAWYERS IN WEST EDMONTON
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“I was referred to Bill by a friend / Employer in June of 1996. I was devastated with the realization that my marriage was over. Bill was amazing, patient, kind and professional. After 4 months I was divorced and free from that situation. I am still to this day incredibly grateful to have had Bill as my lawyer.”
- Pauline H.
At William K Horwitz Prof Corp, we understand that being in the middle of a civil litigation lawsuit can be incredibly complex. As a layperson, you might need to be made aware of the best course of action for you. This can force you to compromise on your rights. That is where we come in. Our trusted team can provide you with comprehensive solutions to assist you with civil law in Edmonton and across Alberta.
Civil law is very nuanced. For this reason, we offer a personalized approach to all of our clients. When you come to us, we take the time to examine the details of your case and provide you with an individualized dispute management strategy. With us, you'll receive decades of practical experience, a commitment to excellence, and hands-on support.
Please contact us if you'd like assistance from an experienced civil lawyer in Edmonton. We're here to help you navigate your legal matters with confidence.
WHAT IS CIVIL LAW?
Civil law concerns legal disputes that arise between two or more parties. These disputes are not criminal; the parties can be corporations or individuals. Typically, the suing party, or the Plaintiff, seeks some damages from the other party, also known as the Defendant. The damages are seen as compensation for the loss the Plaintiff might have suffered.
Civil litigation has various facets, and cases don't always go to court. The parties might employ mediation and arbitration to reach an outcome before the case goes to trial.
WHO IS A CIVIL LAWYER, AND WHAT DO THEY DO?
A civil lawyer handles non-criminal legal matters that involve disputes between individuals, businesses, or government entities. These matters often relate to contracts, property, personal injury, employment, or family law. Unlike criminal lawyers, civil lawyers represent clients seeking compensation, legal remedies, or court orders.
Our team is committed to providing legal guidance and representation at every stage of a civil action. Our Edmonton-based civil law professionals draft legal documents, offer tailored legal advice, represent clients in court, and engage in dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. Whether a case proceeds to trial or is settled out of court, having a knowledgeable civil lawyer in West Edmonton ensures your legal rights are upheld and your obligations are clearly understood.
Civil law in West Edmonton follows specific procedural rules outlined in the Alberta Rules of Court. A civil lawyer must comply with filing deadlines, court procedures, and evidentiary requirements. This attention to detail helps reduce delays and supports a fair legal process. Contact us today to discuss your legal requirements.
CIVIL LAW CASES EXPLAINED
A civil case exists when one party fails in their duties towards another party. There are three main types of civil litigation. They can be classified as:
This area covers the legal disputes arising from property transactions. Two aggrieved parties contest their claim to property or legally address concerns over other property-related matters.


This occurs when one or both parties have been accused of breaching the terms of a contract. Usually, one party would owe reparations to the other based on a court ruling or out-of-court settlement.
The concept of tort law addresses an individual's wrongdoing and directs the wrongdoer to provide relief in the form of monetary compensation. Personal injury claims fall under this category.
UNDERSTANDING THE STEPS IN A CIVIL ACTION
A civil action generally follows a structured process. The following are the typical stages:
Filing a Civil Claim
A civil action formally begins when a plaintiff (the party initiating the lawsuit) files a Civil Claim (Form 7) with the Provincial Court or Court of King's Bench. This document outlines the nature of the dispute, the relief sought, and the relevant facts supporting the claim. The defendant (the party being sued) must be served with a copy of this claim.
Serving the Defendant
Once the claim is filed, it must be properly served on the defendant according to Alberta's rules for service. This ensures that the defendant is aware of the legal action and has an opportunity to respond.
Filing a Dispute Note
After being served, the defendant has 20 calendar days (within Alberta) to file a Dispute Note (Form 8), indicating their intention to challenge the claim. This document outlines their version of events and any legal defences.
Disclosure of Evidence
Both parties are required to share relevant evidence and documentation. This stage, referred to as "disclosure," ensures that both sides understand the facts and have access to key information before the matter proceeds.
Pre-trial Resolution Options
Alberta's courts encourage early resolution of civil matters through mediation, pre-trial conferences, or other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. A civil lawyer helps assess the viability of these options and represents clients during these proceedings.
Trial
If the matter is not resolved beforehand, it proceeds to trial. During the trial, each side presents its evidence and arguments. A judge then makes a final ruling. Civil trials are governed by rules of evidence and courtroom procedure that must be followed precisely.
Call our civil lawyers in West Edmonton today for more information on our legal services. We also provide notary services.
WHY HIRE A CIVIL LITIGATION LAWYER?
It is advisable not to proceed with a civil litigation dispute without enlisting the right type of support. There are many reasons to hire a civil litigation lawyer, such as:
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Case assessment: A lawyer will take a hard look at your case and determine the best possible course of action. You will get a clearer picture to make an informed decision.
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Paperwork: Civil litigation disputes demand tedious paperwork. A lawyer will take care of all your documentation and ensure it is in order. With their support, legal jargon will be easier for you to understand.
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Protection from incrimination: You might accidentally disclose self-incriminating information without a lawyer. It is best to let an experienced lawyer speak on your behalf.
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Experience: Seasoned lawyers like us have supported countless clients through their civil litigation cases. They're deeply acquainted with the legal process and know what it takes to win your case.
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Mediation: A civil litigation case doesn't always have to go to court. Lawyers possess negotiation skills that can enable them to reach a favourable settlement without going to trial.
If you're facing a civil litigation matter, don't navigate it alone. Our experienced civil lawyers in Edmonton specializes in civil law and is here to provide the essential support you need, from case assessment to representation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can make the legal process more transparent and more manageable. We can also help you with real estate disputes.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE CIVIL CLAIM HAS BEEN SERVED?
After a civil claim has been served in West Edmonton, the defendant must take action within the specified time frame. We guide plaintiffs and defendants through the next legal steps, including response and preparation.
Filing a Response
The defendant must file a Dispute Note within the time limit (usually 20 days for Alberta residents). Failing to respond within the deadline allows the plaintiff to request a default judgment, which may result in a binding decision without further input from the defendant.
Default Judgment Possibility
If the defendant does not file a Dispute Note, the plaintiff may apply for a default judgment. This means the court may grant the requested relief based on the claim alone without holding a hearing or trial. This process underscores the importance of a timely and proper legal response.
Moving Toward Resolution
Suppose the defendant files a Dispute Note; the action proceeds. Both parties begin preparing evidence, gathering witness statements, and consulting legal counsel. Throughout this period, negotiations or settlement discussions may take place.
Court-mandated Conferences
Courts may direct parties to attend a mediation or pre-trial conference. These steps aim to encourage settlement and streamline court proceedings. Our civil lawyer in West Edmonton helps clients prepare for these meetings and provides legal representation.
Preparing for Trial or Settlement
Should the case proceed to trial, both parties must submit their evidence, legal arguments, and witness lists to the court. A civil lawyer ensures all filings are complete and compliant with Alberta's legal standards. In many instances, cases settle before reaching trial through negotiated agreements.
GET IN TOUCH
Civil law disputes can be time-consuming, expensive, and complicated. Losing a civil lawsuit can be life-altering because there may be a large amount of money at stake. William K Horwitz Prof Corp offers legal advice and guidance for clients contesting civil matters in Alberta.
A capable civil lawyer in Edmonton will help you avoid potential lawsuits by evaluating your business to reduce liability. An example of this would be to have your lawyer present when you are drawing up contracts with other parties. Doing this can avoid any potential loopholes that the other party may exploit against you. It is always wise to stay prepared and avoid litigation. However, if it comes to that, we are with you every step of the way and will represent your interests in court if required. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to speak with a trusted civil lawyer in Edmonton about your dispute.