Civil Litigation

There are two types of actions in court: civil and criminal.

In a criminal case, freedom is at stake.

In a civil case, it is usually money that is at stake. In these actions, people may be seeking compensatory damages (money for compensation) or punitive damages (money to be paid as punishment for particularly egregious conduct).

Civil actions for injunctive relief seek a court order commanding someone to do something or refrain from doing something. In a civil action for declaratory relief, the party seeks a court order declaring the legal status of a particular issue.

Most people prefer that they never have to be involved in a lawsuit. For those rarely involved in lawsuits (or never involved in lawsuits) it can be a scary process. As civil litigators, we are here to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible throughout what might otherwise be an unpleasant experience.

Contracts

People tend to think of a written document when they think of the word “contract.” In fact, Pennsylvania courts have held that a contract may be manifest orally, in writing, or as an inference from the acts and conduct of the parties.

Think of a contract as an “agreement.”

The best way to ensure that all parties to the agreement are on the same page is to have a solid written contract clearly expressing the intentions of all parties. It can be important to have an attorney draft, review, or even negotiate your contract to ensure that all bases are covered. Although some people try to save money and draft their own contracts, sometimes these money-saving measures turn into expensive litigation if the contract is not legally sound.

Lawsuits involving contracts often dispute one’s interpretation of a contract. Others involve disputes as to the facts, and whether the parties fulfilled their duties under the contract. Either way, if you are involved in a contractual dispute, it may be in your best interest to retain an attorney early in the process. Whether you believe the other party has failed to act in accordance with your contract, or if somebody is accusing you of breaching a contract, an attorney can explain your rights and obligations under the contract, and fight on your behalf if necessary.

Personal Injury

If you have been injured through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to compensation. Pennsylvania law recognizes that people who have suffered injuries because of somebody else’s negligent or intentional actions should not be told “tough luck.” Injuries can have a huge impact on a person’s life. Those injured may have a claim for pain, suffering, lost wages, and/or other damages.

Employment Discrimination

Discrimination happens. In most instances, it’s wrong, and in certain instances, it’s illegal.

The law protects people from certain types of discrimination. Some of the most common forms of illegal discrimination include discrimination based on: race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

Those who have been discriminated against in the workplace must first exhaust their administrative remedies. That means they must first file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (http://www.phrc.pa.gov) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (https://www.eeoc.gov/).

Please be aware that in most instances, if you fail to file a claim within 180 days of when the discrimination occurred, you can lose your claim!

If you have been discriminated against in your place of work, an experienced attorney can help you file a claim with the PAHRC and the EEOC, and can help you file a lawsuit if necessary.

Sexual Harassment

In 2018, there is no excuse for sexual harassment. It is not OK. Sexual harassment can cause physical, mental and emotional wounds that affect the victim long after the conduct ceases.

Fortunately, the law recognizes the serious harms caused by sexual harassment, and provides avenues for recourse.

Those who have subjected another individual to sexual harassment should pay for their actions. Often people feel that a lawsuit cannot undo the harm that has been done. That may be true. But that doesn’t mean that nothing should be done to remedy that harm. A successful lawsuit can compensate the victim (as best as the law can). Further, although civil litigation will not result in jail time, sometimes hitting an abuser in the pocket deals a blow in the only language they understand.

If you have been a victim of sexual harassment, there is no need to be ashamed or sit idly. An experienced attorney can help you seek the relief you deserve.

Senior Abuse

After contributing to our society for their entire lives, all too often, elderly people are forgotten.

And while they should be revered and cared for, we see more and more seniors subject to abuse.

This is a sad injustice that cannot go unpunished. In these instances, all responsible should be held accountable.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of senior abuse, do not sit on the sidelines. People must fight for what is right, or the injustice is bound to continue. Let an experienced attorney fight for you, and seek justice on your behalf.

The information and content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please hire an attorney competent to fulfill your needs.