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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 South Dakota, initiating a lawsuit involves the plaintiff filing a petition or complaint with the appropriate court. This document must adhere to the procedural rules of the state or federal court system where the case is being filed. The complaint should clearly outline the legal claims against the defendant and the factual reasons for those claims, providing the defendant with reasonable notice. Filing electronically is often an option, depending on the court's capabilities. Additionally, the plaintiff is required to pay a filing fee at the time of submission, which varies depending on the type of case and the court. Once the lawsuit is filed, the plaintiff must also ensure that the defendant is properly served with a copy of the complaint and a summons, which informs the defendant of the lawsuit and how to respond.

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Civil litigation

filing a lawsuit

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

South-Dakota State Code

South-Dakota State Code

Civil litigation

filing a lawsuit

Articles