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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 Massachusetts, the plaintiff's petition or complaint is the initial legal document filed in a civil court to start a lawsuit. This document outlines the plaintiff's allegations and the legal basis for the claims against the defendant, as well as the specific relief or damages the plaintiff is seeking. Once the complaint is filed with the court, it must be formally delivered to (served upon) the defendant. Service of process ensures that the defendant is properly notified of the lawsuit and has an opportunity to respond. The defendant is then required to answer the complaint, typically within 20 days if they are in the state, or longer if they are outside the state, to avoid a default judgment. The complaint must comply with the Massachusetts Rules of Civil Procedure, which dictate the form, content, and procedure for filing and serving legal documents in the state's civil courts.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Massachusetts State Code

Massachusetts State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Articles