82. plaintiff

What is a Plaintiff?

A plaintiff is the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a legal complaint against another party, known as the defendant. The plaintiff seeks a legal remedy, such as monetary damages, specific performance, or an injunction.

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Key Features of a Plaintiff

✔ Brings legal action against a defendant ✔ Bears the burden of proof in civil cases ✔ Seeks legal remedies for harm suffered ✔ Must establish a valid cause of action ✔ Can be an individual, business, or government entity

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Examples of a Plaintiff in Action

• In a personal injury lawsuit, an injured person sues a negligent driver for damages.

• In a breach of contract case, a business sues another company for failing to fulfill contractual obligations.

• In a constitutional lawsuit, a civil rights group sues the government for violating constitutional rights.

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5 Reference Pages for Plaintiff with URLs

1. Legal Information Institute – Plaintiff Definition

   • URL: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/plaintiff

   • Explanation: Defines a plaintiff, their role in a lawsuit, and the burden of proof required.

2. Justia – What is a Plaintiff?

   • URL: https://www.justia.com/dictionary/plaintiff/

   • Explanation: Provides a legal definition of a plaintiff and explains their rights in litigation.

3. FindLaw – Who is the Plaintiff in a Lawsuit?

   • URL: https://www.findlaw.com/litigation/what-is-a-plaintiff.html

   • Explanation: Describes the role of a plaintiff and the process of filing a lawsuit.

4. US Courts – Understanding the Role of a Plaintiff

   • URL: https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/types-cases/civil-cases

   • Explanation: Explains how plaintiffs initiate lawsuits in federal courts.

5. Wikipedia – Plaintiff

   • URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaintiff

   • Explanation: Provides an overview of plaintiffs in different legal systems, including civil and criminal cases.

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