Complaint - A written statement that begins a civil lawsuit, in which the plaintiff details the claims against the defendant.⏎
Due process - In criminal law, the constitutional guarantee that a defendant will receive a fair and impartial trial. In civil law, the legal rights of someone who confronts an adverse action threatening liberty or property.⏎
Discovery - Procedures used to obtain disclosure of evidence before trial.⏎
Defendant - In a civil case, the person or organization against whom the plaintiff brings suit; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.⏎
Dismissal with prejudice - Court action that prevents an identical lawsuit from being filed later.⏎