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ChecklistCivil ProcedureMedium
Litigation Checklist
Litigation Checklist for preparing documents, facts, dates, and questions connected to civil procedure.
Time to prepare2-5 hours
Before you start
0/2 completedNeed help with this checklist?
Get support from a lawyer who works with civil procedure matters.
Before filing or hearing
0/2 completedOn consultation or court day
0/2 completedAfterwards
0/2 completedWhen It Applies
You received or may issue civil court papers.
You need to prepare for a litigation lawyer, court date, settlement discussion, or procedural deadline.
Not For
- Criminal, divorce, eviction, insolvency, Labour Court, or urgent application strategy without route-specific advice.
Documents
- Court papers
- Proof of service
- Contracts
- Invoices
- Payment proof
- Correspondence
- Witness list
- Settlement offers
- Court orders
- Judgment documents
Timeline
- Immediately: identify court, case number, and next deadline.
- Before filing: collect papers and evidence.
- On court day: record directions and next dates.
- After judgment: check enforcement or appeal risk.
Tips
- Do not ignore deadlines while negotiating.
- Keep filed versions separate from drafts.
- Use one procedural calendar.
- Ask a lawyer before calculating court deadlines yourself.
Warning Signs
- Default judgment or a warrant is mentioned.
- A filing date has passed.
- Service is disputed.
- The matter involves property, eviction, insolvency, employment, or urgent relief.
Official sources
- Department of Justice Magistrates’ Courts formsCivil summons, notices, and court form context.
- Superior Courts Act 10 of 2013Superior court context.
- Office of the Chief JusticeCourt system context.
This checklist is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
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