Plaintiff
The party who starts civil action proceedings by issuing summons against a defendant.
Definition
A plaintiff is usually responsible for identifying the correct defendant, cause of action, court, relief claimed, documents, and service route. The practical review should check the claim basis, contract or evidence, amount or relief, jurisdiction, prescription risk, party details, particulars of claim, and whether action proceedings are the right route instead of application proceedings.
Key takeaways
The party who starts civil action proceedings by issuing summons against a defendant.
Civil Procedure
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Related legal problems
This glossary provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Common situations
Start civil claim
Issue summons
Contract or debt claim
Related resources
Resources and guides
Court Process Timeline Map
Process resource for summons, notices, pleadings, hearings, judgment, and enforcement milestones.
Civil ProcedureClient Document PackCivil Litigation Consultation Pack
Civil Litigation Consultation Pack: prepare Summons, Notice of motion, Pleadings and identify missing records before legal advice.
Civil ProcedureChecklistLitigation Checklist
Litigation Checklist for preparing documents, facts, dates, and questions connected to civil procedure.
Civil ProcedureFAQs
Plaintiff FAQs
What does Plaintiff mean?
The party who starts civil action proceedings by issuing summons against a defendant.
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