In the described litigation process, what is the initial step?

In the described litigation process, what is the initial step?

• A. Client has a problem
• B. Discovery
• C. Complaint
• D. Trial

Answer: (A)

The starting point in litigation is when the client recognizes a problem and seeks legal help. This moment sets everything in motion: the attorney assesses the facts and potential claims and decides how to proceed. Discovery comes later, as a phase where the parties gather information after a case has begun. A complaint is the formal pleading that starts the civil action, which occurs once the decision to pursue a claim has been made. Trial is the final stage, happening after pleadings and pre-trial steps. So, the initial step is the client having a problem, because without that problem there would be no claim to file or lawsuit to pursue.

The starting point in litigation is when the client recognizes a problem and seeks legal help. This moment sets everything in motion: the attorney assesses the facts and potential claims and decides how to proceed. Discovery comes later, as a phase where the parties gather information after a case has begun. A complaint is the formal pleading that starts the civil action, which occurs once the decision to pursue a claim has been made. Trial is the final stage, happening after pleadings and pre-trial steps. So, the initial step is the client having a problem, because without that problem there would be no claim to file or lawsuit to pursue.