The legal system has no shortage of reasons to exist. Between civil matters, smalls claims courts and criminal proceedings, courthouses are rarely empty. The laws of each state are enforced through the courts when the parties cannot reach a settlement. Become familiar with three of the most common reasons people find themselves having to spend a day or more in court.
1. Divorce
Weddings are a time of celebration, but when the marriage does not work, the couple finds themselves embroiled in a divorce. As an expert family lawyer Oklahoma City OK can tell you, the process can become quite contentious if the parties are emotional. There are so many issues to work out in a divorce, such as:
- Division of cash, property and debt
- Child custody and visitation schedule
- Child support
- Spousal support
These topics may become polarizing, and if the couple does not put aside their differences to compromise, a judge has to intervene and decide.
2. Personal Injury Claims
When a person gets injured through the fault of another, they may file a lawsuit to get financial compensation. Personal injury claims are civil and seek a finding of negligence for the at-fault party. Common incidents that lead to these type of legal proceedings include:
- Car accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Slip and fall incidents
- Workers’ compensation actions
3. Criminal
A criminal proceeding may vary from misdemeanors or minor infractions up to first-degree felony charges. A criminal charge does not always end in jail time, but some may require it depending on the offense. People accused of these crimes are usually released and able to attend court proceedings. However, if they do not show up or if the crime they are accused of is serious, they may have to remain in jail until the judge or jury decides guilt or innocence. Examples of criminal proceedings include robbery, DUI and murder.
If you find yourself facing time in court, getting help from a legal professional may help you decide how to proceed.