What is a complaint?

A complaint is a legal document that starts a civil lawsuit in the state of Arkansas. The purpose of the complaint is to explain why the plaintiff (the person who initiated the lawsuit) is suing the defendant (the person or business being sued). A complaint includes general information about the parties involved, the facts of the dispute, and the relief that is being sought. In Arkansas, the complaint must identify the court where it is filed, the parties involved, and the basis of jurisdiction. The complaint must include a “caption” that shows the name of the court and names of the parties, a “preamble” that explains the legal relationship between the parties, and a “statement of claim” that describes the facts and the relief sought. Finally, the complaint must include a “prayer for relief” that explains in detail the remedy (or remedies) the plaintiff is seeking. When this document is filed the defendant is said to be “served” and must respond with an answer or a motion to dismiss. The complaint serves as the foundation of the civil procedure in Arkansas.

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What is a complaint?

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