A Checklist of issues that plaintiff's counsel should consider before filing a civil lawsuit in Massachusetts state court. Specifically, this Checklist addresses the merits of litigation and alternative dispute resolution, the need for immediate relief, whether the plaintiff can collect on a judgment, whether plaintiff must or should send a pre-suit demand or notice letter, who should be named in the lawsuit, whether the court has jurisdiction over the case and the defendant, and proper venue. This Checklist also identifies issues associated with representation including conflicts.