What is the legal document called that outlines the plaintiff's case against the defendant?

The legal document that outlines the plaintiff's case against the defendant is referred to as a claim. This document serves to detail the allegations made by the plaintiff, laying out the facts and legal basis for the lawsuit. It typically includes the specific relief or remedy sought from the court, whether that be monetary compensation, injunctive relief, or another form of judgment.

A claim is essential for informing the defendant of the nature of the dispute and what they are being accused of, enabling them to prepare their defense. It is a foundational aspect of civil procedure and initiates the legal process within the context of a lawsuit.

In contrast, a petition is often used in specific legal contexts, such as family law or bankruptcy, to request a court order, but it is not the standard term used for outlining a lawsuit's allegations. A summons is a document that notifies a defendant that they are being sued and provides instructions regarding how to respond. A writ is a more formal order issued by a court, typically commanding a person to perform a specific act, and is not used to outline allegations in a civil lawsuit.