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Simple English definitions for legal terms
cross-petition
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A quick definition of cross-petition:
A cross-petition is when a defendant in a legal case makes a claim against another party involved in the case. It can also refer to a claim made by a defendant against someone who is not a part of the case but is related to the subject of the case.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: A cross-petition is a claim made by a defendant against another party in the same legal action. It is also known as a cross-complaint.
For example, if a person sues another person for breach of contract, the defendant may file a cross-petition against the plaintiff for a related matter, such as unpaid wages. This allows both parties to assert their claims and defenses in the same legal action.
In some cases, a defendant may file a cross-petition against a person who is not a party to the action, but whose actions are related to the subject of the action. For instance, if a person is injured in a car accident and sues the driver, the driver may file a cross-petition against the car manufacturer for faulty brakes.
These examples illustrate how a cross-petition allows a defendant to assert their own claims and defenses in the same legal action, rather than having to file a separate lawsuit.