Legal Definitions - well-pleaded complaint

A well-pleaded complaint is the initial legal document that starts a civil action. It outlines the basis for the court's jurisdiction, the plaintiff's claim, and the demand for relief. In some states, this document is called a petition.

For example, if someone sues their landlord for not fixing a leaky roof, the well-pleaded complaint would state that the court has jurisdiction over the case, that the landlord breached their duty to maintain the property, and that the plaintiff is seeking damages for the resulting harm.

A well-pleaded complaint must be specific enough to allow the defendant to draft an answer that addresses the issues presented. In federal court, it must also raise a controlling issue of federal law to establish federal-question jurisdiction over the lawsuit.

Overall, a well-pleaded complaint is a crucial document that sets the stage for a civil action and outlines the plaintiff's case.