How long do civil proceedings take?

First-instance civil proceedings commonly run for several months to over a year, depending on the court's docket, the evidence and whether expert reports are needed. Appeals add further time.

As a rule the losing party bears the costs in proportion to the outcome, including state fees and a legally recognised part of the lawyer's fee. Costs are awarded by the court on the basis of the submitted list.

Can I be represented without attending in person?

In most civil and commercial matters a lawyer can act under a power of attorney without the client attending, unless the court expressly requires a personal appearance for questioning.

Litigation · Bulgaria

Litigation and Court Representation in Bulgaria

We represent claimants and defendants at every level of the Bulgarian court system, from the first instance to the Supreme Court of Cassation. Cases are prepared around evidence and strategy: what we can prove, what it will cost, and whether a settlement serves you better than a judgment.

Book a Consultation Call +359 893 561 202

How we can help

Case assessment and strategy

Before filing we review the documents, map the evidence, assess limitation periods and prospects of success, and set out the expected cost, duration and enforceability of any judgment.

First instance proceedings

Drafting the statement of claim or defence, evidentiary requests, witness and expert evidence, court-appointed valuations and full representation at the hearings.

Interim measures and injunctions

Attachment of bank accounts, distraint of property and other security measures obtained before or during the proceedings so that the judgment is not left unenforceable.

Appeals and cassation

Appeals to the regional and appellate courts and cassation appeals to the Supreme Court of Cassation, including the grounds for admission of the cassation appeal.

Arbitration and enforcement

Representation in arbitration proceedings and before bailiffs, defence against unlawful enforcement, appeals against bailiff actions and recovery of what has been wrongly collected.

Fees

Initial legal consultation – the consultation fee varies depending on the complexity of the case, deductible from subsequent legal fees. After the consultation you receive a written scope of work and a fixed-fee proposal.

Frequently asked questions

How long do civil proceedings take?: First-instance civil proceedings commonly run for several months to over a year, depending on the court's docket, the evidence and whether expert reports are needed. Appeals add further time.
Who pays the costs?: As a rule the losing party bears the costs in proportion to the outcome, including state fees and a legally recognised part of the lawyer's fee. Costs are awarded by the court on the basis of the submitted list.
Can I be represented without attending in person?: In most civil and commercial matters a lawyer can act under a power of attorney without the client attending, unless the court expressly requires a personal appearance for questioning.

Book a Consultation

Describe your case briefly and we will come back to you with available times.