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 Wisconsin, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the Wisconsin Statutes and the Wisconsin Rules of Civil Procedure. These rules outline the processes that parties must follow from the initiation of a lawsuit through its resolution, whether by trial or settlement. The pretrial phase includes filing of the complaint, service of process, and the parties' responses, which may include answers, motions to dismiss, or counterclaims. Discovery procedures, which allow parties to obtain evidence from each other, are also detailed in these rules. Trial procedures cover jury selection, presentation of evidence, and courtroom conduct. After a trial, posttrial motions and appeals processes are available for parties seeking to challenge or enforce a court's decision. Local rules may also apply, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific court in which the case is heard. It is important for parties to adhere to these procedures to avoid delays, sanctions, or having their case dismissed.