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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 South Dakota, the plaintiff's petition or complaint is the foundational document that commences a civil lawsuit. It is filed with the appropriate court and must be formally served on the defendant. This document outlines the plaintiff's allegations and the factual basis for the claims, as well as the specific relief or damages the plaintiff is seeking, which could be monetary compensation, injunctive relief, or other forms of legal remedy. The complaint must provide sufficient detail to give the defendant fair notice of the claims and the grounds upon which they rest, allowing the defendant to prepare an adequate defense. The rules governing the content and service of the complaint are set forth in South Dakota's codified laws and the rules of civil procedure, which ensure that the legal process is fair and that the defendant is properly informed of the legal action being taken.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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South-Dakota State Code

South-Dakota State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Articles