Litigation Handbook

Your handbook for litigating police misconduct cases.


Welcome to the Litigation Handbook, a comprehensive guide designed to help practitioners, particularly those focused on civil rights cases involving police misconduct, navigate the complex world of litigation. This handbook serves as a roadmap, offering step-by-step guidance and best practices from the earliest stages of considering a claim through to trial.

What's Inside

  • California Tort Claims Act: Essential information on adhering to this foundational California law.
  • Pre-Litigation: Preparation steps to take before initiating a lawsuit.
  • Calendaring: A guide to manage deadlines effectively.
  • Complaint: How to draft and file an effective initial complaint.
  • After Complaint: What to expect and how to proceed once the complaint is filed.
  • Depositions: A walkthrough on taking and defending depositions.
  • Primer on Experts: A guide on when and how to use expert witnesses.
  • Motions for Summary Judgment: Strategies for both making and defending against these crucial motions.
  • Interlocutory Appeals: An overview of appealing court orders before trial.
  • The Mediation: Tips for effective mediation to potentially resolve the case before trial.
  • Pretrial Documents in CDCA: A guide to the essential documents for pretrial proceedings in the Central District of California.
  • Preparing for Trial: Key steps in the run-up to trial.
  • Participating in Trial: What to expect and how to conduct yourself during the trial.

Each section includes not just theoretical knowledge, but also practical tips and examples to help you better represent your clients and succeed in court.

Feel free to dive into each section for detailed insights and guidance. Whether you're a seasoned lawyer or a beginner in the field of civil rights litigation, this handbook aims to be an invaluable resource.