What document is commonly filed to begin a civil case?

• A. Complaint
• B. Answer
• C. Motion
• D. Brief

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how a civil case starts. In civil procedure, the action is begun when the plaintiff files a pleading that sets out the facts, the legal claims, the parties, and the relief sought. That document is the complaint. It serves to notify the court and the defendant about what is being alleged and why the plaintiff believes they’re entitled to relief. After the complaint is filed, the court typically issues a summons and the defendant must be served with it and the complaint.

The defendant responds later by filing an answer, which admits or denies the allegations and can raise defenses. A motion is something asked during the case, like for a ruling on a point of law or procedure, not the starting document. A brief is a written argument supporting a position on a particular issue or motion, not the instrument used to initiate the case.