Pleadings

Definition

Pleadings are formal written documents filed with a court, accusing a party of wrongdoing, or defending a party against such an accusation.

Purpose

Pleadings establish the issues to be decided by the court and provide the framework for legal proceedings. They outline the claims, defenses, and other legal arguments of the parties involved in a case, allowing the court to understand the basis of the dispute.

Examples of Use

• Complaint: A pleading filed by a plaintiff to initiate a lawsuit, outlining the accusations and basis for the claim.
• Answer: A pleading filed by a defendant in response to a complaint, addressing each allegation and presenting defenses.
• Motion: A request made to the court for a specific ruling or order, often filed as part of the pleadings.

Related Terms

• Complaint: The initial pleading by the plaintiff in a civil lawsuit.
• Answer: The defendant's response to the complaint.
• Motion: A formal request to the court for a specific action or decision.

Notes

• Format: Pleadings must adhere to specific formatting rules and procedural requirements as set by the court.
• Content: They must include clear and concise statements of the facts, legal claims, and defenses relevant to the case.