Civil litigation, is a non-criminal, dispute between two parties. It can involve individuals, businesses or government entities. The plaintiff seeks damages from the defendants. 

Some examples of civil litigation includes contract disputes, business torts,  consumer claims of deceptive business practices, fraudulent misrepresentations, breach of fiduciary duties, fraudulent inducement, business and
commercial disputes and landlord/tenant disputes.

There should generally be an initial attempt to resolve the dispute without judicial intervention. 

Stages in the civil litigation process typically generally begin in the presuit process. This process involves research, investigation and resolution attempts before suit is filed. After suit is filed, the parties file pleadings and engage in discovery, which is the exchange of information. Next, the parties enter the pre-trial phase which involves retaining expert witnesses and develop a strategy for the proceedings. As the case goes to trial, the parties appear for a jury or judge to hear their case while they present evidence. Settlement may occur if the parties to resolve the dispute. An appeal may become necessary to challenge a judge’s ruling.