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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 New Jersey, 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 and the legal basis for the claim against the defendant, as well as 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 done in accordance with New Jersey court rules, which may include personal delivery, mail, or other methods as permitted by law. The defendant then has a specific period of time to respond to the complaint, typically by filing an answer or a motion to dismiss. The complaint is a critical document as it sets the stage for the legal proceedings and informs the defendant of the need to respond to the plaintiff's allegations and the relief sought.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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New-Jersey State Code

New-Jersey State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Articles