Lawsuit

A lawsuit is a proceeding by a party or parties against another in the civil court of law. The conduct of a lawsuit is called litigation. The plaintiffs and defendants are called litigants and the attorneys representing them are called litigators. The term lawsuit is used in reference to a civil action brought by a plaintiff against a defendant, who is required to respond to the plaintiff’s complaint.

Burger Law is the recognized leader in injury law. Our experienced and accomplished personal injury lawyers will demand justice and compensation for you in any type of personal injury lawsuit. We take a variety of types of personal injury lawsuits, including the most common:

• Car Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall
• Dog Bite

We also take lawsuits in these areas:

• Product Liability
• Wrongful Death
• Medical Malpractice
• Workers’ Compensation

Although the majority of lawsuits are settled before reaching trial, they can still be complicated to litigate under civil procedure. The general process of a lawsuit includes:

• Pleading

A lawsuit begins when a complaint or petition, known as a pleading, is filled with the court. A complaint should explicitly state that one or more plaintiffs seek damages or equitable relief from one or more stated defendants, and also should state the relevant factual allegations supporting the legal claims brought by the plaintiffs.

• Pretrial discovery

The formal process of exchanging information between the parties about the witnesses and evidence they’ll present at trial. Discovery is meant to eliminate surprises, clarify what the lawsuit is about and make the parties decide if they should settle or drop frivolous claims or defenses.

• Resolution

Usually, lawsuits end in a settlement. Generally speaking, the plaintiff has the burden of proof in making claims. At any time during the process from the pleading to the final judgment, the plaintiff may withdraw the complaint and end the matter, or the defendant may agree to a settlement. If the lawsuit is resolved by a jury, the decisions are not put into effect until the judge makes a judgment, which is the approval to have this trial information be filed in public records.

• Appeal

After a final decision is made, either party, or both, may appeal from the judgment if they believe there has been a procedural error made by the trial court. The appeal is a review for errors rather than a new trial, so the appellate court will defer to the discretion of the original trial court if an error is not clear.

• Enforcement

When a final judgment is entered, the plaintiff is usually barred under the doctrine of res judicata from relitigating any of the issues, even under different legal theories. Judgments are typically a monetary award. If the defendant fails to pay, the court has various powers to seize any of the defendant’s assets located within its jurisdiction, like:

• Writ of execution
• Bank account garnishment
• Liens
• Wage garnishment

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Juanita Matthews

Year of 2023

This law firm is absolutely amazing. They took on my case, when nobody else would! They fought hard for me when it seemed there was no hope. They kept me informed and always asked for my input before making decisions on my case. Gary puts himself into every case unlike most law firm owners. Gary and his team really care about every one of their clients, and fights hard to get you a fair settlement. They actually won my case out of court, and then reduced my fees to make sure I could get my car fixed and be able to get back to some normality. I would recommend Burger Law over and above any other firm! If you go somewhere else you aren’t getting the best!

Shaunda S.

7 months ago

I am very happy with the staff at Burger Law. I mostly worked with Michael Sheldon, and he did an amazing job. I trusted him completely with my case, and he did not disappoint. I would definitely recommend this team if your ever in need of good attorneys.

Emelia M.

3 months ago

Burger Law Firm is fantastic. Laura and Genevieve were so amazing and helpful throughout the entire process. They helped me with my personal injury case every step of the way and succeeded at getting me the results I desired.

Helen L.

a year ago

We had a great experience with Burger Law for representing us after a serious car accident. Truly impressed by how professional and supportive the entire team is. And, many thanks to Genavieve and Laura – you are amazing!

Judy M.

a year ago

They did an amazing job on my case! Communication with them was great!!! Kept me informed and in the loop with everything that was going on!!! Will definitely be the 1st ones I’ll call if ever I’m in another accident!!! Thank you very much!!!

Chelsea C.

5 months ago

Let me tell you something about Burger Law.. they are so attentive and kind. Jennifer is my savior!! I love the whole team!!! They are truly a miracle team!! I appreciate their business and would recommend it to others.

David D.

2 months ago

Absolutely the best law firm in the St. Louis area. No matter the size of your case you are treated as if you are the only client on the roster. Will explain anything thoroughly and they work around your availability. Very impressed and appreciative of the service.

Lisa B.

11 months ago

Gary and Casey took great care of me for 2.5 years as my lawsuit was finally settled. I feel he helped me achieve justice for me and my 4 children after their father died from medical malpractice and neglect. Thanks to Gary, my kids now have a great start to their college and adult lives. Thank you Gary and Casey, for fighting for us so hard at our most trying and difficult time in our lives thus far. Love and God bless from my family to yours!

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