The pleadings of a case are the written statements of fact and law filed with a court by the parties to a lawsuit. Pleadings generally include such papers as a complaint, demurrer, answer, and bill of particulars.

■■ If only questions of law are at issue, the judge will decide the case based on the pleadings.

■■ If there are questions of fact, a trial will be held to determine those facts. In a negligence action, the first pleading filed with the court is a complaint, which identifies the parties to a suit, the cause of action, and the demand for damages.