The formal discovery process must now begin. This stage can be onerous and almost always requires assistance of an attorney. This does not include attorneys fees for the parties. This is why most lawyers request a sizable retainer up front. If witnesses or experts are necessary, additional costs will be incurred for expert fees and crucial depositions.
Subpoenas requiring witnesses to bring documents or physical evidence, add to the expense.
One must evaluate whether a potential judgment in a matter justifies the investment of time and expense. Whether the judgment can be collected is another factor. A person cannot be put in jail for failure to pay a civil judgment. Filing writs of attachment, garnishment or application for a turnover order to seize the judgment debtor's assets is equally expensive. If you do actually prevail, you must be prepared if your opponent appeals.