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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 West Virginia, 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. It also specifies the type of relief or damages the plaintiff is seeking, which could be monetary compensation, injunctive relief, or other remedies. Once the complaint is filed with the court, it must be formally served to the defendant, which provides official notice that a lawsuit has been initiated against them. This service of process ensures that the defendant has the opportunity to respond to the allegations. The rules governing the filing and service of a complaint are detailed in the West Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure, which aim to ensure fairness and due process for all parties involved in the litigation.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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West-Virginia State Code

West-Virginia State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Articles