When a legal dispute disrupts your life or business, the path forward can feel uncertain and daunting. Whether you are facing a breach of contract, dealing with property damage, or navigating the fallout from another party's negligence, the stress can impact every part of your world. You might be worried about your financial stability, your reputation, or your future. In these challenging moments, you do not have to find the answers alone. Having a dedicated Billings civil litigation lawyer by your side can provide the clarity and support you need to protect your rights and interests.
At Rimrock Law, we understand the stress and anxiety that arise when disagreements escalate into legal matters. We know that these are not just cases; they are personal challenges that affect families and businesses right here in our Billings community.
We are committed to providing thoughtful guidance and determined representation to help you navigate your legal dispute. Our approach is built on a foundation of clear communication and a deep understanding of Montana's legal landscape. If you are caught in a civil matter and are unsure of your next steps, we invite you to contact us for a free case evaluation to discuss your situation.
OUR STRATEGY
Why Choose Rimrock Law for Your Civil Matter?
Choosing the right legal partner to represent you in a civil matter is one of the most critical decisions you will make. You need a team with a proven track record, a deep understanding of Montana law, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. The attorneys at Rimrock Law combine national-level experience with the personalized, compassionate service you can only find at a local Montana firm. We believe our approach gives our clients a distinct advantage.
Here is why individuals and businesses in Billings and across Montana trust Rimrock Law:
- Decades of Proven Experience: Our attorneys, including Matthew Braukmann and James Dallner, bring decades of combined legal experience to the table. We have successfully navigated the complexities of state and federal courts, handling a vast array of civil disputes.
- A Record of Substantial Results: We have recovered over $100 million for our clients across our practice areas. This isn’t just a number—it represents lives restored, wrongs righted, and futures secured. We are not afraid to take on large corporations or deep-pocketed opposition to get the best results possible in your case.
- Strategic, Client-Focused Approach: We know that no two cases are alike. We take the time to listen to you, understand the unique details of your situation, and develop a tailored legal strategy designed to achieve your specific goals efficiently and effectively.
- Local Knowledge, National Reach: We are Montana's injury and dispute lawyers. Our deep roots in Billings give us an intimate understanding of the local court systems, judges, and legal landscape. This local insight, combined with our experience in handling matters across the country, provides you with comprehensive and formidable representation.
When you hire Rimrock Law, you are not just getting a lawyer; you are gaining a dedicated team of advocates who will have your back from your initial consultation to the final resolution.
Experience
Over 80 years of law and resolving civil litigation cases across the nation.
Success
We have recovered millions of dollars in damages for clients.
Reputation
Matt Braukmann, James Dallner and Phill Lorenzo have been practicing law for a combined 80 years. Together and individually, they have built a reputation of trust, integrity, grit – everything you want in a civil litigation lawyer.
What is Civil Litigation?
In the simplest terms, civil litigation is the legal process used to resolve non-criminal disputes between two or more parties, which can be individuals, businesses, or even government entities. Unlike criminal law, which involves the government prosecuting someone for a crime and can result in penalties like jail time, civil law focuses on resolving disagreements over rights and responsibilities.
The primary goal in most civil cases is not to prove guilt but to determine liability. The party who initiates the lawsuit, the "plaintiff," seeks to hold the other party, the "defendant," responsible for a harm or a wrong. This harm can be physical, financial, or reputational.
If the plaintiff is successful, the remedy is typically not imprisonment. Instead, a court may order the defendant to:
- Pay Monetary Damages: This is the most common outcome. The defendant is ordered to pay a sum of money to the plaintiff to compensate for losses, such as medical bills, lost income, property repair costs, or pain and suffering.
- Grant an Injunction: This is a court order that requires a party to do something (a mandatory injunction) or to stop doing something (a prohibitory injunction). For example, a court might order a business to stop using a copyrighted logo or to honor the terms of a non-compete agreement.
- Enforce Specific Performance: In some contract disputes, a court can order a party to follow through on their promise as outlined in the contract, such as completing the sale of a piece of real estate.
The standard of proof in a civil case is "a preponderance of the evidence," which means it is more likely than not that the defendant is responsible for the plaintiff's damages. This is a lower threshold than the "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard used in criminal cases. A skilled Billings civil litigation attorney from Rimrock Law can help you gather the necessary evidence to build a strong, persuasive case that meets this standard.
Civil Litigation
We have resolved hundreds of civil litigation cases over the last two decades resulting in multi-million dollars in recovered damages.
Cases Resolved
- Successfully represented an international architect in a dispute with the owner involving the expansion of one of the largest casinos in the United States.
- Successfully resolved a multimillion-dollar dispute between business owners in a case involving allegations of fraud.
- Successfully represented a large valve manufacturer in multimillion-dollar products liability case.
- Successfully represented a manufacturer in a multi-week trial before a Federal Court jury against claims of misappropriation of trade secrets and design patent infringement.
- Successfully resolved a multimillion-dollar dispute between business owners in a case involving allegations of fraud and accounting malfeasance.
Types of Civil Claims We Handle
The scope of civil litigation is vast, covering nearly every type of dispute that can arise between people and organizations. The attorneys at Rimrock Law have a wealth of experience resolving a wide variety of civil claims. We understand the nuances of Montana law and are prepared to advocate for your rights in matters including, but not limited to:
Property Damage
Your property, whether it is your home, your vehicle, or your business, is a significant investment. When it is damaged due to someone else's carelessness or intentional actions, the financial and emotional toll can be immense. We handle property damage claims arising from construction defects, negligent neighbors, auto accidents, fires, and more. Our team will work to ensure you are fully compensated for repair or replacement costs, diminished value, and any other related losses.
Contract Disputes
A contract is a legally binding promise. When one party fails to uphold their end of the bargain, it can lead to significant financial harm and operational disruption. We represent individuals and businesses in Billings in all types of contract disputes, including:
- Breach of contract
- Partnership and shareholder disputes
- Employment agreement violations (e.g., non-compete clauses)
- Construction contract disagreements
- Real estate contract issues
- Disputes over the sale of goods or services
We can help you interpret the terms of the contract, assess your damages, and pursue a resolution through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Negligence
Negligence is the legal foundation of most personal injury claims, but it also forms the basis for many other civil disputes. A negligence claim arises when one party's failure to exercise a reasonable level of care causes harm to another. This can include professional malpractice (by an architect, accountant, etc.), premises liability (a slip and fall on poorly maintained property), or negligent entrustment (lending a vehicle to an unsafe driver). We meticulously investigate these cases to establish the four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages.
Fire Subrogation
When a fire causes damage, the property owner's insurance company often covers the initial loss. However, if a third party's negligence caused the fire—such as a faulty product, a careless contractor, or a negligent tenant—the insurance company has the right to "step into the shoes" of the insured and sue the at-fault party to recover the money it paid out. This is called subrogation. Rimrock Law has the experience to handle these complex cases, representing insurers or defending those accused of causing a fire.
Auto Accidents
While often categorized under personal injury, car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are a common form of civil litigation. These cases involve proving another driver's negligence led to your injuries and property damage. Our team excels at dealing with insurance companies, reconstructing accidents, and fighting to secure full and fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and the personal toll of the accident.
Insurance Disputes
You pay your insurance premiums with the expectation that your provider will be there for you when you need them. Unfortunately, insurance companies sometimes wrongfully deny valid claims, delay payments, or offer an unfairly low settlement. This is known as acting in "bad faith." We hold insurance companies accountable and fight to make them honor the terms of their policies, whether the dispute involves a homeowner's claim, a health insurance denial, or an auto accident settlement.
What Clients Say About Us
"Solid character, good family man, high integrity."
How Our Billings Civil Litigation Lawyers Can Help You
Navigating the civil justice system can be a daunting and confusing process. Having an experienced and compassionate legal team on your side can make all the difference. At Rimrock Law, our role is to be your guide, your advocate, and your shield. We handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on moving forward.
Here’s a look at the comprehensive process our Billings civil litigation lawyers undertake for our clients:
- Free and Thorough Case Evaluation: It all begins with a conversation. We offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation where you can share your story in a confidential setting. We will listen carefully, ask pertinent questions, and provide an honest assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of your case and your potential legal options.
- Diligent Investigation and Evidence Gathering: A successful civil claim is built on a foundation of solid evidence. Our team will immediately begin a meticulous investigation. This may involve gathering documents like contracts and police reports, interviewing witnesses, consulting with industry experts (such as engineers, medical professionals, or financial analysts), and preserving critical evidence before it can be lost or destroyed.
- Strategic Legal Planning: Once we have a clear picture of the facts, we will develop a customized legal strategy. We will define the key legal issues, identify the responsible parties, and calculate the full extent of your damages. We will explain our proposed course of action to you in plain English, ensuring you are an informed and active participant in your own case.
- Skilled Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: Many civil disputes can be resolved without ever stepping foot in a courtroom. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can often achieve a favorable settlement through direct discussions with the opposing party or their legal counsel. We are also experienced in mediation and arbitration, which are structured negotiation processes that can save you time, money, and stress. Our primary goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you in the most efficient manner.
- Tenacious Courtroom Representation: While we strive for an amicable resolution, we never back down from a fight. Unlike some firms that are quick to accept a lowball settlement offer, we are always prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to secure justice. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators with extensive courtroom experience. We will powerfully present your case to a judge or jury, adeptly handle cross-examinations, and argue passionately on your behalf.
From filing the initial complaint to navigating the complexities of discovery and presenting your case at trial, Rimrock Law will manage every legal detail with precision and unwavering dedication.
Billings Civil Litigation FAQs
It's natural to have many questions when facing a legal dispute. Below, we have answered some of the common questions we hear from clients in Billings.
How long do I have to file a civil lawsuit in Montana?
The time limit for filing a lawsuit is known as the “statute of limitations,” and it varies depending on the type of claim. For example, in Montana, you generally have three years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim and two years for medical malpractice. For breach of a written contract, the limit is eight years. Because these deadlines are strict, it is crucial to speak with a civil litigation lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t forfeit your right to seek justice.
What is the "discovery" phase of a lawsuit?
Discovery is the formal process where both sides of a lawsuit exchange information and evidence. It is a critical fact-finding phase. The primary tools of discovery include Interrogatories (written questions the other party must answer under oath), Requests for Production (requests for relevant documents and evidence), and Depositions (out-of-court oral testimony given by witnesses and parties under oath). Our team uses the discovery process strategically to build your case and uncover the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition’s position.
Is it likely that my case will go to trial?
The vast majority of civil cases—well over 90%—are settled out of court. Trials can be expensive, time-consuming, and unpredictable for both sides. Therefore, there is often a strong incentive to reach a negotiated agreement. However, our philosophy at Rimrock Law is to prepare every case as if it is going to trial. This meticulous preparation not only makes us ready for the courtroom but also puts us in a much stronger position to negotiate a favorable settlement on your behalf.
Contact Our Trusted Billings Civil Litigation Attorney Today
When you are facing a breach of contract, property damage, or an unfair insurance denial, the weight of the situation can be crushing. Let the compassionate and experienced team at Rimrock Law lift that burden from your shoulders. We are here to be your advocates, your advisors, and your staunchest allies.
We combine decades of high-stakes legal experience with a deep, personal commitment to the people and businesses of our Montana community. We have the resources, the reputation, and the resolve to stand up to any opponent on your behalf. We will focus on the fight while you focus on what matters most—your family, your health, and your future.
The time to act is now. Contact a Billings civil litigation lawyer at Rimrock Law today at (406) 606-1650 or through our online form to protect your rights and start on the path to resolution.