What legal action is taken to initiate a lawsuit?

To initiate a lawsuit, the correct legal action is typically to file a complaint. This document outlines the plaintiff's case against the defendant, stating the facts of the case and the legal reasons why the plaintiff is entitled to relief. The complaint serves as the foundational document for the lawsuit, establishing the issues that will be litigated and formally notifying the defendant of the claims being brought against them.

While terms like "petition," "claim," and "request for hearing" may be relevant in specific legal contexts, they do not universally represent the mechanism for commencing a lawsuit across various jurisdictions. Filing a complaint is the standard procedure in civil litigation. It details the allegations, specifies the parties involved, and requests that the court provide a remedy or relief. This process initiates the court's involvement and sets the stage for potential resolution through trial or settlement.