Blog Post: What Is a Civil Lawsuit — and Should You File One?
Posted: July 21, 2025
What Is a Civil Lawsuit — and Should You File One?

When someone wrongs you, filing a civil lawsuit may help you recover. Here’s what you need to know.

Not all legal disputes involve crime. If someone caused you financial, physical, or emotional harm, you might file a civil case — not a criminal one.

Let’s break down how civil lawsuits work and when to consider one.

A civil suit is a legal case between two private parties (people or companies), often about:

  • Money damages
  • Injuries
  • Breach of contract
  • Property disputes

No jail time — just compensation or action.

  • Personal injury (car accidents, slips, medical malpractice)
  • Landlord-tenant disputes
  • Contract disagreements
  • Defamation or emotional distress

Most civil cases are decided by the preponderance of evidence — meaning your version must be more likely than not.

If you succeed, you may be awarded:

  • Financial compensation
  • Property rights
  • A court order (injunction) to stop harmful actions

Civil lawsuits can hold others accountable and help you recover what’s fair. Vikk AI can guide you on whether your situation qualifies — and connect you with civil litigation lawyers.