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 Missouri, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the Missouri Rules of Civil Procedure, which outline the processes to be followed from the pretrial phase through to the posttrial phase. These rules cover various aspects such as filing complaints, serving documents, discovery, motions, and trial conduct. Additionally, the Missouri courts may have local rules that provide further guidance on procedural matters specific to a particular jurisdiction. These local rules complement the statewide rules of civil procedure and must be adhered to by the parties involved in a civil lawsuit. It is important for parties to be aware of and comply with both sets of rules to avoid delays and potential penalties. An attorney can provide guidance on navigating these procedures effectively.