keresetlevelet

Keresetlevél is a term from Hungarian civil procedure referring to a formal document used to initiate a civil action. It is filed with the competent court by the plaintiff and, after basic formal checks, served on the defendant to notify them of the dispute and the claims being brought.

A keresetlevél typically contains several essential elements. It identifies the court with jurisdiction, lists the full names and addresses of the plaintiff and the defendant, and provides a concise statement of the facts giving rise to the dispute. It states the legal basis for the claim, the specific remedy sought (such as a monetary amount, an injunction, or other relief), and the amount claimed if applicable. The document also indicates the evidence and documents attached to support the claim, specifies the applicable deadline for the defendant’s response, and bears the signature of the plaintiff or their legal representative. In addition, it is common to include the applicant’s request for costs and any interest.

Process and effect: after filing, the court reviews the keresetlevél for formal sufficiency. If accepted, the court arranges service of the document on the defendant, typically through a court bailiff, thereby starting the procedural timeline. The defendant is ordinarily required to respond within a statutory period. A correctly prepared keresetlevél is essential for initiating a civil action; deficiencies can lead to dismissal or require amendments. It is distinct from non-legal uses of the term, such as a cover letter in employment contexts, and is written in Hungarian with appropriate legal form and authorities cited.