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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 Florida, 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, as well as the specific relief or damages the plaintiff is seeking. Once the complaint is filed with the court, it must be formally 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 Florida's rules, which typically involve personal delivery to the defendant or an authorized agent. The defendant then has a specific period of time, usually 20 days, to respond to the complaint by filing an answer or a motion to dismiss. Failure to respond can result in a default judgment against the defendant. The complaint is a crucial document as it sets the stage for the legal proceedings and informs the court and the defendant of the plaintiff's intentions and the nature of the dispute.

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Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Florida State Code

Florida State Code

Civil procedure

plaintiff's petition or complaint

Articles