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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 Louisiana, the plaintiff's petition or complaint is the initial legal document that commences 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 petition is filed with the appropriate court, Louisiana law requires that the defendant be properly served with the petition, along with a summons. Service of process ensures that the defendant is given formal notice of the lawsuit and the claims against them, allowing them the opportunity to respond. The defendant will then have a set period of time, as prescribed by Louisiana's Code of Civil Procedure, to file an answer or other responsive pleadings to the plaintiff's allegations. Failure to respond in a timely manner may result in a default judgment against the defendant.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Louisiana State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Louisiana State Code

Articles