Pleading

Pleading is a formal written document submitted to a court by each party involved in a lawsuit. It outlines their respective claims, defenses, and legal arguments. In the initial stage, the plaintiff files a complaint to start the case, and the defendant responds with an answer. These pleadings help clarify what each side believes the case is about, establish the issues to be decided, and ensure both parties have fair notice. Pleadings are essential for organizing the legal process and allowing the court to understand the positions of each party early on.