CHAPT 8-20 CIVIL LIT

Pleadings

Formal written documents filed with the court that state each party’s claims and defenses.

Complaint

Document filed by the plaintiff that begins a civil lawsuit.

Summons

Official court document notifying the defendant of a lawsuit.

Statute of Limitations

Time limit for filing a lawsuit after an injury or legal claim occurs.

Service of Process

Delivery of legal documents to notify a party of court proceedings.

Civil Cover Sheet

Document providing basic case information when filing a lawsuit.

Motion

Formal request asking the court to make a decision or issue an order.

Motion to Enlarge Time

Request for additional time to complete a required action.

Default Judgment

Judgment entered against a party who fails to respond or appear.

Entry of Default

Court recognition that a party failed to respond.

Discovery Motions

Motions involving disputes over obtaining or responding to discovery.

Motion for Summary Judgment

Request for judgment because there is no genuine dispute over important facts.

Motion in Limine

Request to exclude certain evidence before trial.

Answer

Defendant’s response to the complaint.

Affirmative Defense

Defense where the defendant admits facts but argues a legal reason they should not be liable.

Third-Party Complaint

Claim brought by defendant against another party who may be responsible.

Discovery

Process where parties obtain information before trial.

Depositions

Sworn testimony taken outside court before trial.

Interrogatories

Written questions answered under oath.

Requests for Production

Requests for documents, records, or tangible items.

Requests for Admission

Requests asking a party to admit or deny facts.

Electronic Discovery (E-Discovery)

Discovery of electronically stored information (ESI).

Spoliation

Destruction or alteration of evidence.

Deposition Transcript

Written record of testimony.

Physical or Mental Examination

Court-approved examination of a party when their condition is relevant.

Pretrial Preparation

Organizing evidence, witnesses, and legal arguments before trial.

Mock Trial

Practice trial used to prepare attorneys and witnesses.

Phases of Civil Trial

Includes Jury Selection, Opening Statements, Presentation of Evidence, Closing Arguments, Jury Instructions, Verdict, and Judgment.

Electronic Courtroom

Courtroom using technology to present evidence.

Posttrial Motions

Requests after trial asking the court to change or reconsider decisions.

Appeal

Request for a higher court to review a decision.

Judgment Enforcement

Process of collecting money or obtaining relief after winning a case.

Judgment-Proof Debtor

Person who lacks assets or income available for collection.

Satisfaction of Judgment

Official confirmation that the judgment has been paid or resolved.