Getting hit with a lawsuit is jarring, unsettling, and frankly, something you’d probably rather ignore. Unfortunately, ignoring a lawsuit won’t make it go away. In fact, pretending it’s not happening can lead you down a path lined with even more headaches and financial problems. So, what should you do when you find yourself staring down the barrel of a civil lawsuit? Get proactive.

Step One: Read the Complaint

When you’re served with a lawsuit, the first thing to do is actually read through the complaint. That’s the document where the person suing you lays out what they think you did wrong and what they want from you, which is usually money. This is your opportunity to get everything in order, and quickly, because time is of the essence.

Step Two: Get a Lawyer

Let’s be clear: Googling “how to win a lawsuit” and representing yourself based on a few internet articles is akin to performing surgery on yourself because you watched a medical drama. It’s not a good idea. An experienced attorney will take apart the complaint, find where it’s weak, and come up with a strategy that works best for your situation. They know the rules, they know the tactics, and, more often than not, they know the judge too.

Step Three: Respond

You generally have about 20 to 30 days to answer the complaint, depending on where you live. That’s your chance to tell your side of the story. Don’t bury your head in the sand no matter how overwhelming the situation seems.

Here’s what happens if you do nothing: The court isn’t going forget the whole thing. Instead, they’ll likely give the plaintiff what they want. This may look like wage garnishments, liens on your property, or even the seizure of your assets.

Play an Active Role in Advocating for Yourself

While it’s your lawyer’s job to fight for you in court, you’re not just a spectator. This is your life, your money, and your reputation on the line. Get involved. Provide your lawyer with every piece of information—emails, contracts, photos—that could help your case. Understand the process and make informed decisions together. The more engaged you are, the better your defense will be.

In essence, being sued isn’t the end of the world, but it’s not a minor hiccup either. It’s a serious situation that requires a serious response. And while you might not be a legal whiz yourself, that doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines. Get a good lawyer, get informed, and take an active role in your defense.

If you’re caught in the whirlwind of civil litigation, help is just a phone call away. Reach out to Melchert Hubert Sjodin, PLLP at (952) 442-7700. Let us take the weight off your shoulders so you can get back to living your life, lawsuit-free.