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Court name, parties, case number placeholder and title — establishes venue and must match the clerk's formatting requirements to avoid rejection.
Filing a properly drafted Civil Complaint preserves rights, defines legal theories, and notifies defendants of claims. It establishes jurisdictional facts and the relief sought, starts statutory deadlines, and creates the procedural foundation for discovery and court review.
Civil Complaints are prepared by attorneys and by individuals acting pro se; organizations may also file through in-house counsel or outside counsel.
The responsible filer must ensure the complaint meets local formatting rules, includes proper parties, and is served according to jurisdictional service rules.
An attorney files on behalf of a plaintiff, signs the complaint attesting to factual and legal bases, and certifies compliance with local rules and service procedures. The attorney coordinates exhibits, filing fees, and subsequent service of process.
A self-represented individual files and signs the complaint personally, is responsible for accurate party names and service, and must follow the court's civil rules without attorney assistance.
Court name, parties, case number placeholder and title — establishes venue and must match the clerk's formatting requirements to avoid rejection.
Full legal names and capacities (individual, corporation, agent) for plaintiffs and defendants; correct identification matters for service and jurisdictional assertions.
Statements supporting subject-matter jurisdiction and venue, including statutory or federal question/al diversity allegations when applicable.
Concise, chronological facts showing events giving rise to each cause of action; avoid argumentation mixed with factual assertions.
Numbered legal claims aligned with supporting facts, each citing the legal basis (statute or common law) and required elements.
Specific remedies requested (damages, injunctions, declaratory relief, costs) and any alternative or equitable relief the court may grant.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Document Format | PDF/A preferred for court filings |
| Signature Placement | Use a single signature block for plaintiff or counsel |
| Certificate of Service | Attach proof of service page as separate exhibit |
| Retention | Store signed PDF and audit trail securely |
Ensure your eSignature tool supports court-compatible PDF export and captures a detailed audit trail before filing or service.
Generally 90 days for federal courts (FRCP 4(m)); state rules vary.
Federal defendant typically must answer within 21 days after service (FRCP 12(a)(1)(A)(i)).
Briefing schedules set response times for motions to dismiss or other motions.
Governs when claims must be filed; varies by cause and state.
Court issues scheduling order setting discovery and trial dates.
Complaint is filed and case number issued by the clerk.
Plaintiff completes service of process on each defendant.
Defendant answers or moves within the rule period.
Court issues initial scheduling order for discovery and hearings.
A landlord files a complaint for unpaid rent and possession in state court with lease and ledger exhibits attached
A small business sues for contract breach, attaching the signed agreement and invoices
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |