Q: Does a criminal case need to be completed before starting a civil case?
A: Typically, an injury case (civil case) can be instituted before a criminal case is concluded. Depending on the case and the facts, some attorneys would recommend that the criminal case be concluded before starting the civil case in order to allow the facts and information to be developed by the prosecutors and law enforcement officials. Most injury attorneys offer a free consultation so it would make sense to consult with an attorney or two on this matter. I am working on a case right now in which I waited for the criminal investigation to be completed before starting the case. The report provided by law enforcement / State social services is very helpful to my case and provided some great facts and information for the case. Good luck with your case.
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