Civil litigation is a legal process where individuals, businesses, or other entities resolve disputes in a court of law. These disputes typically involve seeking monetary compensation or specific actions rather than criminal penalties. Civil litigation encompasses a wide range of legal issues, including contract disputes, property disputes, family law matters, and personal injury claims.

In Singapore, a civil lawsuit is a legal action initiated by an individual or entity (the plaintiff) against another party (the defendant) in a civil court. The purpose is to resolve a dispute where the plaintiff seeks compensation or other relief for harm or loss suffered due to the defendant’s actions or inactions. Singapore’s civil law system provides a structured framework for these disputes to be resolved fairly and efficiently.

To file a civil lawsuit in Singapore:
1. Consult a Lawyer: Determine the validity of your claim with legal advice.
2. Pre-litigation Steps: Complete any required mediation or send a Letter of Demand.
3. File Legal Documents: Submit a Writ of Summons or Originating Summons to the court, depending on your case.
4. Serve Documents: Notify the defendant by officially serving the court documents.
5. Attend Court Proceedings: Participate in pre-trial conferences and, if necessary, a trial.
6. Enforce Judgement: If successful, follow court procedures to enforce the judgment.

Litigation means going to Court to resolve a dispute. Both parties will present their case in the Court, at which point the judge renders their verdict. On the other hand, arbitration is a private process where both parties agree that a third party (a neutral party) will yield a binding decision.

Arbitration also differs from litigation in several ways. The main difference is that arbitration is handled outside of the court system and can be much faster and less formal than litigation. However, arbitration can only be granted if it is provided within a contract agreed upon between the parties.