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Civil litigation

filing a lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit (often called a plaintiff’s petition or complaint) generally requires the plaintiff to file a document (often electronically) in the general form required by the rules of procedure in the applicable state or federal court system, and to pay a filing fee. The petition or complaint must give the defendant (person or entity being sued) reasonable notice of the legal claims asserted and the factual basis for those claims.

In Minnesota, initiating a lawsuit involves the plaintiff filing a petition or complaint with the appropriate state or federal court. This document must adhere to the procedural rules of the court system in which the case is being filed, which often includes electronic filing (e-filing) systems. The complaint must provide the defendant with reasonable notice of the legal claims and the factual basis for those claims, ensuring the defendant is informed of the nature of the lawsuit and the reasons behind it. Additionally, the plaintiff is required to pay a filing fee, which varies depending on the court and the type of case. The Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure outline the specific requirements for the content and format of the complaint, as well as the process for serving the defendant with notice of the lawsuit. Failure to follow these rules can result in delays or dismissal of the case.

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Civil litigation

filing a lawsuit

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Minnesota State Code

Minnesota State Code

Civil litigation

filing a lawsuit

Articles