I can't emphasize enough how lawsuits are usually not worth the time, money, and emotional investment. We equate law suits with power and justice. They are not. Frankly, there are so many ways a lawyer can pad a bill in good faith with no fraud. Also, I worked for multinational corporations and foreign government. Any research was important. I had to hunt down footnotes and minor matters. When I researched law review articles, I had to read all of them. Next, I had to select the best to recommend to other lawyers. The quality was superb. This is not what normal people can afford, though.
The regular players, CEOS and others, know how to limit lawyer billable hours. Also, if you listen to defense lawyers, you will never leave your house for fear of the risk.
What disturbs me even more than excessive bills is the emotional wear and tear. I worked with the best in the world. The prevailing sentiment was unanimous. Only sue when necessary, then sue with force. If your personal interests are involved, avoid suing to an even greater extent. Justice and fair play are present when negotiations occur. It helps to have a knowledgeable lawyer to do the negotiations. A win-win is always the best scenario. When I write legal letters on my behalf, I always stress the benefits to the other party as an inducement to settle. If you can remove yourself from your emotions, try to view the situation from your opponent's perspective.
I don't know the actual damages but judges are not pleased with people using the courts for trivial matters. Litigation is ruining America in many ways. The price is passed on to all consumers. We pay as a society not the party being sued. There are many inducements to settle disputes before litigation. These inducements were included at the request of lawyers and approved by lawyers.
Also, it can take five to seven years to get on the calendar in some jurisdictions. This is why many family members of 9.11 victims went for the federal fund money up front rather than wait years for a jury trial. You must discount the final settlement bu the delay. Despite being my profession, I find any dispute taxing on my emotions.