What does litigation refer to?

Litigation refers to the formal process of resolving disputes within the court system. This involves various stages, including the filing of a lawsuit, discovery, pre-trial motions, trial, and potentially appeals. The primary goal of litigation is to obtain a legally binding decision from a judge or jury concerning a dispute between parties.

This process is characterized by strict adherence to legal procedures and rules governing how cases are presented and argued in court. Unlike alternative dispute resolution methods—such as mediation or arbitration, which typically occur outside the courtroom—litigation is initiated and conducted through court systems and involves public records and formal court hearings. The outcomes of litigation can lead to enforceable judgments and legal precedents that shape future cases.