What is meant by "civil litigation"?

Civil litigation refers specifically to the legal process used to resolve private disputes between individuals or entities through the court system. This process typically involves parties seeking compensation for damages, enforcing rights, or obtaining injunctions to compel or prevent certain actions. Unlike criminal cases, which involve the government prosecuting an individual for violations of law, civil litigation focuses on disputes where the plaintiff seeks a resolution that may include monetary compensation or specific performance from the defendant.

In civil litigation, cases often encompass a wide range of issues, such as contracts, property disputes, torts, and family law matters. The resolution of these disputes is achieved through various legal procedures, which may involve pleadings, discovery, trial, and potential appeals. Overall, the essence of civil litigation is its focus on addressing non-criminal matters and providing a platform for individuals to assert and protect their rights in a legal forum.