Civil Law

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Every civil case follows a general lifecycle, though each situation is unique. The key phases include:

1) Initial Investigation & Evaluation
2) Filing of the Complaint
3) Response by Defendant (Answer, Motion to Dismiss, Affirmative Defenses)
4) Pretrial Motions & Hearings
5) Mediation or Settlement Negotiations
6) Trial
7) Appeals (if applicable)
8) Post-Judgment Collection (if successful)

Central Florida Civil Litigation

Plaintiff: The individual or entity initiating the lawsuit
Defendant: The individual or entity being sued

Phases of a Civil Lawsuit

At The Law Office of Mandy Pavlakos, P.A., we provide experienced, strategic legal counsel for individuals and businesses involved in civil disputes throughout Central Florida. Civil litigation involves legal conflicts between parties seeking financial compensation or specific performance, rather than criminal penalties.

Understanding the Parties Involved

Attorney fees vary depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen billing structure. Before beginning representation, we will clearly discuss all costs with you. Common fee arrangements include flat fees—a single fee for defined services; hourly billing—based on the time spent on your case; and contingency fees—where attorney fees are collected only if we win, typically in cases involving an insurance company. In addition to attorney fees, other potential litigation expenses may include court filing fees, process server costs, court reporter and deposition fees, expert witness fees, and transcript costs. We will review all anticipated costs with you upfront to ensure transparency and avoid any surprises.

Legal Fees: What to Expect

Civil litigation encompasses a wide range of non-criminal legal disputes, including but not limited to:
  • Breach of contract
  • Landlord/tenant disputes
  • Foreclosure defense
  • Insurance claims
  • Unfair trade practices
  • Unjust enrichment
  • Consumer and business-related disputes
Whether you’re the party initiating the lawsuit or defending against one, our firm provides personalized representation tailored to your case.

Not all disputes require immediate legal action. However, you should consult an attorney if:
  • The matter involves significant financial or legal risk
  • You’re unsure of your rights or obligations
  • You’ve been served with a lawsuit
  • You’re considering filing suit but don’t know where to begin
For small claims matters (under $5,000), an attorney may not be required. However, even in small claims court, having legal guidance can help ensure your rights are protected.

It’s impossible to determine the exact value of a case at the outset. Each case depends on:
  • The facts and evidence available
  • Applicable Florida laws and legal precedent
  • The strength of the opposing party’s position
Attorney Pavlakos will give you a realistic assessment and help manage expectations while pursuing the best possible outcome.

Your initial consultation is the first step in building a strong case strategy. During your meeting:
  • You’ll speak directly with Attorney Mandy Pavlakos
  • Bring all relevant documents and correspondence
  • We’ll review your legal situation, discuss your options, and identify the best course of action
  • You’ll receive straightforward, honest advice tailored to your unique circumstances
We offer both in-office and phone consultations for your convenience.