California Private Investigator Practice Exam

Which document initiates the process of a civil lawsuit?

1. Subpoena

2. Pleading

3. Complaint

4. Summons

The correct answer is: Complaint

The document that initiates the process of a civil lawsuit is known as the Complaint. This legal document outlines the plaintiff's case, including the facts supporting their claim, the legal basis for the lawsuit, and the specific relief or damages sought from the court. When the Complaint is filed with the court, it officially begins the legal proceedings against the defendant. In the context of civil procedure, the Complaint serves as a formal notice to the defendant that they are being sued. It lays the groundwork for the subsequent steps in the legal process, including the defendant's response to the claims made by the plaintiff. The other mentioned documents have different roles within the legal process. A Subpoena is primarily used to compel a person to appear in court or produce documents; it does not initiate a lawsuit. Pleadings refer more generally to the formal statements of each party's claims or defenses, whereas the Summons is a document that informs the defendant that a lawsuit has been filed against them and provides information about their obligations to respond. However, it is the Complaint that specifically begins the litigation process.