Lawsuits

Lawsuits are adversarial by design.

Each side advances its position.

Truth matters, but it does not determine the outcome on its own.

Key Truths – Lawsuits

  • Both sides have the same goal: to win.
  • Just because something bad happened does not mean someone else is legally liable.
  • The party bringing the claim has the burden of proof.
  • Disputes are decided based on the arguments and evidence presented.
  • It does not matter if the law was broken unless it can be proven.
  • Legal disputes generally begin by challenging the other side’s credibility.
  • Sometimes people lie.
  • Each side presents its version of the facts.
  • Outcomes often depend on which version the decision-maker believes.
  • Strategy matters as much as truth.
  • Litigation takes time and resources.
  • Delay can be an effective strategy.
  • Complexity usually favors the defense.
  • Few lawsuits go to trial. The vast majority are dismissed or settled.
  • A legal victory does not always feel like one.
  • Lawsuits are unpredictable. There is no guaranteed outcome.
Waylon holding sign about competing stories in lawsuits where each side presents its version of truth

Truth matters, but it does not decide the outcome.

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