A lawsuit is a formal legal process where disputes are heard and decided by an impartial third party, usually a judge. There are typically two parties involved - a plaintiff bringing the lawsuit and a defendant it is brought against. Lawsuits can be civil, involving issues like contracts, money, and property rights, or criminal, concerning enforcement of laws. If unsatisfied with the court's ruling, either party may appeal citing an error made during the trial. It is generally advisable to consult an attorney regarding lawsuits, as they understand the laws and court process.