plaintiffs

A plaintiff is the party who initiates a civil lawsuit by filing a complaint seeking redress for a perceived legal wrong, harm, or injury. The plaintiff asserts facts, alleges legal claims against the defendant, and requests remedies such as monetary damages, injunctions, or declaratory relief. In civil proceedings, the plaintiff is contrasted with the defendant, who must respond to the allegations.

The plaintiff bears the burden of proof to establish the claims by the applicable standard of proof. In many jurisdictions, this is a preponderance of the evidence; certain claims or doctrines may require a higher standard, such as clear and convincing evidence. Plaintiffs must demonstrate standing, legal capacity, and compliance with procedural rules, including timeliness and proper service.

Types of plaintiffs include private individuals, corporations, non-profit organizations, and government entities pursuing regulatory, public-interest, or enforcement actions. Class actions involve a named plaintiff who represents a broader class. Some proceedings include pro se plaintiffs who litigate without counsel, though complex matters often require legal representation. In some legal systems, terms like claimant, complainant, or petitioner may be used for similar roles.

Remedies pursued by plaintiffs vary and may include compensatory or punitive damages, injunctions to stop or compel action, declaratory judgments, specific performance, or rescission. The outcome depends on evidence, applicable law, and procedural rulings. Plaintiffs may be subject to affirmative defenses, counterclaims, and potential procedural defenses such as statutes of limitations or res judicata.