Court procedures generally refers to the strict processes and procedures the parties to a civil lawsuit must follow during the pretrial, trial, and posttrial phases of civil litigation. These procedures are usually defined and set forth in detail in the applicable rules of civil procedure, rules of court, and local rules.
In Maine, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, which outline the processes that parties must follow from the pretrial phase through to the posttrial phase. These rules cover various aspects of a lawsuit, including filing complaints, serving documents, discovery, motions, hearings, and trials. Additionally, the Maine Rules of Evidence govern the admissibility of evidence in court. Local rules may also apply depending on the jurisdiction, and these can provide further detail on procedures specific to the court in question. It is important for parties involved in civil litigation to adhere to these rules to ensure a fair and orderly process. Failure to comply with these procedures can result in delays, sanctions, or adverse rulings.