What is the pleading stage of civil procedure?

The pleading stage of civil procedure is an important step in the process of filing a civil lawsuit in Washington. It is when both sides of the legal dispute lay out the facts and legal claims that are the basis for their respective cases. During this stage of the civil process, the plaintiff (the person who is filing the lawsuit) files a complaint. The complaint typically outlines the factual and legal basis of the claims being asserted as well as the remedies or types of damages being sought. The defendant must then respond to the complaint by filing an answer or other type of responsive document. Within this document, the defendant responds to each allegation made in the complaint and can either admit, deny, or say they lack knowledge of the allegations. The defendant may also plead any affirmative defenses they have and make counterclaims against the plaintiff. Once both sides have filed their pleadings, the parties may ask the court for rulings on various legal issues by filing motions. Depending on how the parties adjust and reply to the pleadings and motions, the court may decide to refer the case to mediation or to move on to trial. The pleadings stage can be a lengthy and important part of the civil procedure process and is vital for ensuring that the court and the parties have all the information needed to resolve the legal dispute.

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What is the pleading stage of civil procedure?

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