What is a 'pleading' in legal terms?

In legal terms, a 'pleading' refers to a formal written statement that sets out the claims or defenses of the parties involved in litigation. This document is crucial to the civil court process as it establishes the framework for the case, outlining the issues that will be contested. Pleadings typically include the complaint or statement of claim filed by the plaintiff and the response or defense filed by the defendant.

Pleadings serve multiple purposes, such as informing the opposing party of the claims being made and allowing the court to understand the nature of the dispute. They are often governed by specific rules and formalities outlined in the relevant procedural laws, emphasizing their importance in the litigation process.

On the other hand, informal discussions between parties do not constitute pleadings, nor do requests for summary judgments or documents related to preliminary motions. These serve different functions within the legal framework and are not classified as pleadings. Thus, a pleading stands out as a distinct and essential component of legal practice, facilitating the organization and articulation of claims and defenses in a structured manner.