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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

The plaintiff’s petition or complaint is the document filed with the court and delivered to the defendant (served) that initiates a lawsuit and puts the defendant on notice of the plaintiff’s claims against the defendant and the relief the plaintiff is asking the court to award (usually money or injunctive relief).

In Idaho, the plaintiff's petition or complaint is the initial legal document filed with a court to start a civil lawsuit. This document outlines the plaintiff's allegations against the defendant, the factual basis for the claims, and the specific relief or damages the plaintiff is seeking. Once the complaint is filed, it must be properly served on the defendant, which provides official notice that a lawsuit has been initiated against them. Service of process must be carried out in accordance with Idaho Rules of Civil Procedure, which may include personal delivery, service by mail, or other methods permitted by the court. The defendant is then required to respond to the complaint within a specific time frame, typically 20 days, by filing an answer or a motion to dismiss. Failure to respond can result in a default judgment in favor of the plaintiff. The complaint is a critical document as it sets the stage for the legal proceedings and informs the court and the defendant of the issues at stake.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Idaho State Code

Idaho State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Articles