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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Plead
Read a random definition: foreign-relations law
A quick definition of Plead:
Term: Plead
Definition: Pleading is a legal term that means to make a statement or answer in a court case. In a civil case, it refers to filing a document or making an allegation. In a criminal case, it means the defendant's response to the charges against them.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: To plead means to draft and serve a legal document or to file a legal document in court. It can also mean to respond to the opposing party's legal document or to make a legal argument.
In civil lawsuits and petitions, pleading refers to the act of filing any legal document or making an assertion or allegation in a legal proceeding. For example, a plaintiff may plead their case by filing a complaint, while a defendant may plead their defense by filing an answer.
In criminal law, pleading refers to the defendant's response to each charge of criminal conduct. For example, a defendant may plead guilty or not guilty to a charge.
Examples:
- A lawyer may plead their client's case in court.
- A plaintiff may plead their case by filing a complaint.
- A defendant may plead guilty or not guilty to a charge.
These examples illustrate how pleading can refer to making a legal argument or filing a legal document in court. It is an important part of the legal process and allows parties to present their case and respond to the opposing party's arguments.