Many of the schools I'm applying to have questions about whether I've ever been a party in a civil action; here's an example from one application:
"Have you ever been a complainant, party or witness to or otherwise involved in any civil or criminal action, proceeding or investigation?"
I haven't yet been involved in something like this, but coincidentally a few months ago, I was in a pretty serious car accident, and I'm currently working with an injury attorney on a personal injury claim. The case may be settled in the next month with the insurance company, but it may not--it's a whole mess having to do with the possibility of opening up the policy, and I'm guessing that would end up involving a civil suit of some kind.
Any advice on how to answer this question? One other factor is that I'm taking the November LSAT, so my application likely won't be reviewed until December anyway. Should I just wait a few months to see how this turns out? Do I need to update the Admissions department for each school if a lawsuit ends up being filed after I submit my application?
2 comments
Good question!
Basically, provide the most accurate information based on the day that you submit your app. In your case, if nothing has moved forward by the time you press the "submit" button, then you would answer "No" to this question. But if something had moved forward, then you'd answer "yes" and would provide an explanation.
If something changes after you submit your app, you would have to send updated CF information to the schools that ask this question and to whom you had already applied. It's no big deal and it happens all the time! For example, you'll notice that every app has some sort of disclaimer saying that you have a continual obligation to report updated CF information. If you submit your app on Monday and then get arrested for running an illegal kitten fighting ring (I'm trying to come up with the least threatening crime possible...), you'd have to contact the schools to update them on your CF information and explain your arrest.
I hope that helps!
@JacobBaska This is super helpful, thank you! The insurance situation might be out of my control, but hopefully I can manage to avoid any nefarious kitten-related adventures... :)