Legal Definitions - Plead

To plead, in a legal context, refers to the formal act of making a statement, assertion, or request to a court or in a legal proceeding. This can involve submitting official documents that outline a party's claims or defenses, or, in criminal cases, a defendant's formal response to the charges brought against them.

• Initiating a Civil Lawsuit: A small business owner discovers that a former employee has stolen client lists and is using them to poach customers. The owner decides to sue the former employee for unfair competition and breach of contract.
  In this scenario, the business owner will "plead" their case by filing a formal document called a complaint with the court. This complaint outlines the facts of the alleged theft, the legal claims being made, and the relief (such as monetary damages or an injunction) they are seeking.
• Responding to a Civil Claim: A tenant receives a notice from their landlord alleging property damage and demanding payment for repairs. The tenant believes the damage existed before they moved in and is not their responsibility.
  The tenant would "plead" their defense by filing an answer to the landlord's claim. This answer would formally deny responsibility for the damage and might include their own assertions or counterclaims, such as that the landlord failed to maintain the property.
• Responding to Criminal Charges: An individual is arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI). When they appear in court for their arraignment, the judge asks how they wish to respond to the charge.
  The individual must "plead" to the charge, meaning they formally state whether they are pleading "guilty," "not guilty," or "no contest." This formal declaration is a critical step in the criminal justice process, determining how the case will proceed.