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Simple English definitions for legal terms
complaint
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A quick definition of complaint:
A complaint is a document that starts a legal case. It tells the court why the plaintiff is suing the defendant and what they want the court to do. The defendant has to respond to the complaint with an answer. In some cases, the complaint has to include enough details to make the plaintiff's case seem reasonable. The complaint has to be given to the defendant so they know they are being sued and why.
A more thorough explanation:
A complaint is a legal document that starts a case in court. It is filed by the person who is suing, called the plaintiff. The complaint explains why the plaintiff is suing and what they want the court to do about it.
For example, if someone is injured in a car accident, they might file a complaint against the driver who caused the accident. The complaint would explain what happened, how the driver was at fault, and what the injured person wants the court to do, such as awarding them money for medical bills and lost wages.
When a complaint is filed, the defendant, the person being sued, must respond with an answer. The answer explains whether they agree or disagree with the complaint and why.
Complaints must be specific enough to meet the legal requirements of the court. In 2007, the Supreme Court made a ruling that complaints must allege "enough facts to state a claim to relief that is plausible on its face." This means that the complaint must provide enough information to show that the plaintiff has a valid legal claim.
Overall, a complaint is an important legal document that starts a case in court and explains why the plaintiff is suing and what they want the court to do about it.