CIVIL LITIGATION

If you're involved in a civil dispute or have been injured by someone elses negligence you need a reliable civil litigation lawyer on your side.

Attorney Dutko has successfully represented both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases. Some common civil cases include:

• Personal Injury
• Motor Vehicle Accidents
• Slip & Falls
• Civil Rights/Police Brutality
• Employment Discrimination
• Breach of Contract
• Landlord/Tenant
• Emotional Distress
• Dragonetti claims
• Wrongful Termination

These cases take an experienced civil attorney to determine whether a claim is viable. For instance, for a plaintiff to bring a claim they must have what the law refers to as "damages." In other words, you can't sue just to prove a point. You must show that you have suffered a loss.

Timing is important in civil cases. Many claims must be brought within two years of the occurrence. If you've been named a defendant in a lawsuit, you have a limited time to respond before a default judgment can be entered against you.

Attorney Dutko serves as an arbitor in Berks County. Cases where  $50,000.00 or less is claimed go to arbitration. Arbitration is a proceeding where three attorney listen to the testimony, review the evidence and declare a winner. Either party may appeal the arbitors' decision and take the case to a Common Pleas Court judge. Cases involving a dispute greater than $50,000.00 is outside the arbitration limit and are decided by judges. 

If you're involved in a civil dispute it is best to speak with a knowledgeable civil lawyer. Attorney Dutko has represented civil litigants throughout Berks County. Contact Dutko & Chwiecko for a Free Consultation!