A document created by the plaintiff that explains the basis for a lawsuit.

Discovery

$2$

Summons

Motion to Dismiss

$5$

Trial

Motion for Summary Judgment

Complaint

Service of process

$2.$

A document directing the defendant to respond to a complaint within a certain period of time.

$3.$

$4.$ The act of officially communicating to the defendant that they have been sued.

$4.$ A request by the defendant to ask the court to dismiss the lawsuit because the plaintiff has not offered a legal basis that allows the court authority to decide the claim.

$5.$ The phase of the lawsuit where both parties have a chance to get information In varlous forms from the other side.

$6.$ A request by either party that the court decide the case without a trial because there is no dispute about the facts.

$7.$ The phase of the lawsult where each side may present evidence in court.