As I understand the system, there are usually two mechanisms in place to offset this: First: The loser pays costs as determined by the court , usually on a pre

As I understand the system, there are usually two mechanisms in place to offset this: First: The loser pays costs as determined by the court , usually on a preset schedule. It's not like the winner gets to send the loser an invoice for infinity bajillions and they just have to pay up. Second: You can apply for having the government pay if you loose. You have to file a petition explaining how (a) there's a benefit to society in having the case heard and (b) how you're not financially fit to bear the costs yourself.