Filing a lawsuit begins with a complaint outlining your claims, damages, and legal theories against defendants who must respond within 20 days. Discovery follows where both sides exchange information through written questions, document requests, and depositions under oath. Expert witnesses evaluate injuries, reconstruct accidents, and calculate economic losses providing crucial evidence for both sides. Motion practice allows parties to resolve legal issues before trial including requests to exclude evidence or dismiss claims. Settlement negotiations intensify as trial approaches, with many cases resolving during court-ordered mediation sessions. If trial proceeds, jury selection identifies impartial jurors followed by opening statements, witness testimony, and closing arguments. The jury deliberates privately before rendering verdicts on liability and damages amounts creating enforceable judgments.