Which party in a civil case is known for initiating the lawsuit?

In a civil case, the party known for initiating the lawsuit is the plaintiff. The plaintiff is the individual or entity that brings the case to court, alleging that they have suffered harm or loss due to the actions or inactions of another party. This initiatory role is central to the civil litigation process, as the plaintiff outlines their grievances and seeks a legal remedy or damages from the defendant, who is the party named in the lawsuit against whom the claims are made.

Understanding the plaintiff’s role is fundamental to grasping the flow of civil proceedings. The plaintiff’s action sets the legal process in motion, including the filing of a complaint and serving notice to the defendant. This is distinct from the other parties mentioned; for instance, the defendant is the party being accused or sued, the judge oversees the legal proceedings and ensures fairness and adherence to the law, and the jury is responsible for rendering a verdict based on the evidence presented. Each of these roles contributes to the civil litigation process, but it is the plaintiff who initiates the suit.