Civil Litigation

We handle most types of lawsuits that fall under the general category of civil cases — employment, contract, real estate, business disputes, etc. We tend to refer to specialists cases involving personal injury, bankruptcy, and divorce.

The successful handling of most civil cases arises from long years of experience in understanding and applying the rules of civil procedure. These rules govern where a suit can be filed (i.e., in what state or federal court). These rules govern when a suit must be filed (within certain time limitations). These rules govern when a lawsuit must be submitted to a neutral mediator or arbitrator. These rules govern what information and documentation must be provided to and obtained from the opposing party. These rules govern the imposition of sanctions (consequences) for a party’s failure to comply. Finally, these rules govern the conduct of a trial.

Trials are becoming more and more rare. Only one percent of civil cases filed in federal court proceed to trial. It is difficult to find lawyers who have actual trial experience.

Robert Bonaparte has participated in over 150 trials and arbitrations in his 25 years of practice.

Stephen Leggatt served as judicial clerk to federal judges for over fifteen years, primarily in the District of Oregon. He knows the federal court system inside and out, and has good working relationships with most of the current federal judges in this district.