The allegations by each party of their claims and defenses in a civil case.
Claim and defense submissions are made in pleadings at the beginning of a case. A complaint is filed by the plaintiff describing the facts of the case. An answer from the defendant is provided, in which they state their defenses and denials of the charges. A counterclaim by the defendant stating a cause of action against the plaintiff may also be filed.
Pleadings inform the defendant about the existence of a case involving a particular controversy or set of controversies. As a result, the plaintiff will know what the defendant plans to do in the complaint.
