OK at Work

Attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger of Offit Kurman discuss how litigation strategy depends not only on cost and risk but also on how long it takes to reach court and trial. Using Maryland as an example, they compare the faster district court process that can reach trial in roughly four to six months and typically under a year, versus circuit court jury trials with full discovery that generally take at least a year. They note that time affects leverage and helps explain why most civil disputes settle. Timelines can vary by state, county, case volume, COVID-era disruptions, and factors like AI and pro se litigants. 

00:00 Litigation Timelines Intro
01:01 Court Forum Factors
01:38 Maryland Court Speed
02:20 Time Value and Settlements
02:48 Venue and Backlogs
03:58 Speed Versus Recovery
04:22 Arbitration for Faster Results
05:00 Wrap Up and Next Time
  • (00:00) - Litigation Timelines Intro
  • (01:01) - Court Forum Factors
  • (01:38) - Maryland Court Speed
  • (02:20) - Time Value and Settlements
  • (02:48) - Venue and Backlogs
  • (03:58) - Speed Versus Recovery
  • (04:22) - Arbitration for Faster Results
  • (05:00) - Wrap Up and Next Time

What is OK at Work?

OK at Work, hosted by Offit Kurman attorneys Russell Berger and Sarah Sawyer, is a weekly podcast that discusses current events and legal issues impacting business owners. From updates on the ever-changing employment law landscape to the risks and benefits of integrating AI into your workplace, subscribe to stay up-to-date on issues and events that may impact you and your business.