What are reasons to sue someone?

Asked by: Dr. Roderick Kshlerin DDS  |  Last update: July 4, 2025
Score: 5/5 (9 votes)

There are many reasons someone may sue someone for money The case could be about a contract dispute, damage to property, injury to a person, credit card or other debt, work-related disputes, and more. This guide will give you the general steps that apply to these types of civil cases.

What is the most common thing to sue for?

5 Common Types of Lawsuits
  • Personal Injury Lawsuit. A personal injury lawsuit can be filed when someone has suffered a personal injury due to another party's negligence. ...
  • Product Liability Lawsuit. ...
  • Workers' Compensation Lawsuit. ...
  • Wrongful Termination Lawsuit. ...
  • Medical Malpractice Lawsuit.

What goes into suing someone?

A plaintiff begins a lawsuit by filing a summons and complaint. The summons is a notice to the defendant(s) that a lawsuit has been filed against them, what court the lawsuit has been filed in, the court's case number, the date the case was filed, and the number of days before a response is required.

Why would someone try to sue me?

People generally sue to get money. Sometimes they sue for revenge. Sometimes they sue just to mess with the other party. Generally, though, it's for money, to be made whole from the damages at issue. Other reasons risk appearing frivolous, which can result in court costs being assessed against the frivolous party.

At what point is it worth it to sue someone?

You need to answer three fundamental -- and fairly obvious -- questions as part of deciding whether it's worthwhile to bring a lawsuit to court: Do I have a good case? Am I comfortable with the idea of a compromise settlement or going to mediation? Assuming a lawsuit is my best or only option, can I collect if I win?

HOW TO SUE A COMPANY OR AN INDIVIDUAL? Watch this before you file a lawsuit.⚖️

19 related questions found

Is it better to sue or settle?

Litigation takes time and often leads to more time due to appeals and retrials. You will have to be involved as the trial progresses. Whether you are the plaintiff or the defendant, if the total time spent in litigation is not worth a good outcome in court, then settlement is probably a better option.

How much money is enough to sue?

In general, claims are limited to disputes up to $5,000. However, natural persons (individuals) can claim up to $10,000. Corporations, partnerships, unincorporated associations, governmental bodies, and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000.

What are reasons you can sue?

There are many reasons someone may sue someone for money

The case could be about a contract dispute, damage to property, injury to a person, credit card or other debt, work-related disputes, and more. This guide will give you the general steps that apply to these types of civil cases.

Do I need money to sue someone?

As a plaintiff, you need money to meet your living expenses, bills, familial obligations, and responsibilities while your case moves through the stages of a lawsuit.

What is a threat to sue you?

Is It Illegal to Threaten to Sue Someone in California? Yes. Under California's Penal Code, Section 422, those who threaten a person (or their immediate family) could be charged with a criminal offense. This will happen if the threat results in the person's reasoned and sustained fear for their safety.

How much is suing someone?

County Court: The filing fee is typically under $100. District Court: The filing fees can range from $200 to $600. Small Claims Court: Filing fees are generally under $50. Cases filed here involve plaintiffs seeking $7,500 or less in damages.

What are the first steps of suing?

In official Church procedures there are three steps to sainthood: a candidate becomes "Venerable," then "Blessed" and then "Saint." Venerable is the title given to a deceased person recognized formally by the pope as having lived a heroically virtuous life or offered their life.

Will a collection agency sue for $5000?

Unpaid, credit card balances between $5,000 to $10,000 increase the likelihood of legal action by creditors or collection agencies. While agencies typically pursue the full amount owed, debt buyers may accept reduced payments.

Is it worth suing someone with no money?

Essentially, you might think suing someone with no money is futile, but that's not the case. The law protects your rights and allows you to seek compensation if someone causes you harm or loss, regardless of their financial status.

How do you know if you should sue?

How Do I Know if I Have a Viable Lawsuit? As previously discussed, it is very important that a person consult with an attorney to determine whether or not they have viable reasons to sue someone in court. A common place to start, however, is being able to demonstrate that they have suffered some type of injury.

How long does it take to file a lawsuit?

To initially file a lawsuit doesn't take much time at all. However, it can take a year or more to go through the court system once in progress. There is no set answer as several variables come into play, including: The level of compensation being sought.

Is suing someone worth it?

Before filing a lawsuit, prospective litigants should consider what they want from a case. Civil courts can only give you money or return property. A judgment cannot fix an underlying family problem or neighborhood feud. Lawsuits cost time and money, even if you get court costs awarded with a judgment in your favor.

What happens if you lose a sue case?

Losing a lawsuit often means you'll be responsible for court fees and attorney's fees for both parties involved in the lawsuit.

What kind of lawyer do I need if I want to sue someone?

Civil litigation lawyers often go to court to represent their clients, including for personal injury claims, contract disputes, and other common civil matters. Likewise, criminal defense attorneys frequently defend their clients in court.

What is the least you can sue someone for?

While most courts don't have a strict minimum amount you can sue for, the practical minimum is usually determined by the small claims court filing fee, which can range from around $25 to $50, meaning you would need to be suing for at least that amount to make it worthwhile to file a lawsuit; however, the maximum amount ...

How to start a court case?

You start a lawsuit by filing a complaint. In some circumstances, you file a petition or a motion. The court has several complaint forms that you may use in drafting your complaint. The forms are available online and at the Pro Se Intake Unit.

Is it worth suing an employer?

The answer depends on your claims and willingness to pursue litigation. If your claims are strong and you are invested in the litigation process, it can be very “worth it” to feel you are standing up for accountability, getting compensation for your injuries, and incentivizing the company to change its ways.

Can I be sued for $500?

Many types of cases can be filed in small claims court, and it isn't uncommon to see someone suing for $500.

How to prove you were not served properly?

Surveillance: You can provide surveillance footage showing you were not served at the alleged date or that the service was improper. Mail Records: If there's no mail delivered to you or if you haven't signed the receipt. It can indicate improper service.

Can I sue my ex for money owed?

Yes, you can sue someone who owes you money. When someone keeps "forgetting" to pay you or flat out refuses to pay up, the situation can quickly become frustrating. You can take the issue to small claims court and pursue legal action if it falls between the minimum and maximum money thresholds under court rules.