Which document is filed to commence a civil action?

• A. A Motion
• B. An Answer
• C. A Counterclaim
• D. A Complaint

Answer: (D)

Starting a civil action means initiating the suit with a pleading that places the claim before the court. The document that does this is the complaint. It names the parties, identifies the court, lays out the facts giving rise to the claim, states the legal theories, and specifies the relief sought. Filing the complaint triggers service of process, giving the defendant notice and an opportunity to respond. A motion is something you file after the case has begun to request a ruling or order from the court. An answer is the defendant’s formal response to the complaint, admitting or denying the allegations. A counterclaim is a claim by the defendant against the plaintiff within the same action, usually arising from the same transaction or occurrence.