What is a complaint?

A complaint is a document filed with a court that initiates a lawsuit and states the facts and legal theories upon which the plaintiff’s claim for relief is based. It may also demand some form of relief in the form of damages, or a court order instructing the defendant to do or refrain from doing something. In Washington, a complaint must include the facts of the case, the issues of law to be determined by the court, the relief sought, and other necessary information. Additionally, pleadings in Washington must be signed by the involved parties, or their attorneys, and verified or sworn to by the plaintiff. In most cases, a complaint must be personally served on the defendant by the sheriff, a special process server, or other qualified person. A complaint serves several purposes: it informs the defendant of the nature of the lawsuit and puts them on notice that they must respond, it asks the court to adjudicate the dispute as it is framed in the complaint, and it demands relief from the court.

Related FAQs

What are the rules for determining a case's jurisdiction?
What is a motion for reconsideration?
What is alternative dispute resolution (ADR)?
What is the difference between a motion to intervene and a motion to join a case?
What are the grounds for a restraining order?
What is a motion for summary judgment?
What is a "slip and fall" lawsuit?
What is a motion for sanctions?
What is a writ of attachment?
What are the differences between civil law and common law?

What is a complaint?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts