What is the primary purpose of a complaint in civil litigation?

The primary purpose of a complaint in civil litigation is to initiate the lawsuit and state the plaintiff's claims. A complaint serves as the formal document that begins the legal process and outlines the factual basis for the plaintiff's case, the legal theories upon which those claims are based, and the specific relief sought from the court. By filing a complaint, the plaintiff notifies the defendant of the allegations against them and provides the framework for the issues that will be addressed in the lawsuit.

This function is essential as it sets the stage for all further proceedings in the case, establishing the scope of the litigation and allowing the defendant to prepare their response. The complaint is a foundational document in civil procedure, ensuring that both parties understand the claims being asserted and enabling the court to effectively manage and adjudicate the dispute.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the primary role of a complaint. While settling disputes out of court can occur later in the litigation process, it is not the purpose of the complaint itself. Providing a counter-argument is not the role of the complaint, as that is typically the function of the defendant's answer to the complaint. Requesting damages from the court forms part of what the plaintiff may seek in the complaint, but it does not