In a civil lawsuit, who initiates the case by filing the complaint?

• A. Defendant
• B. Plaintiff
• C. Jury
• D. Judge

Answer: (B)

The main concept here is who starts a civil case: the plaintiff files the complaint. The plaintiff is the party bringing the claim and initiates the action by submitting a formal document—the complaint—to the court. This document outlines the facts, legal theories, and the relief sought (such as damages or injunction) and starts the court’s involvement by triggering service on the defendant. After the complaint is filed, the defendant responds with an answer, and the case proceeds through discovery, motions, and, if needed, trial. The jury’s role is to determine facts if a trial is held, and the judge oversees the proceedings, but neither initiates the lawsuit.