The word “complaint” has many definitions, but in this case, we are referring to the legal definition.
Complaint: In legal terminology, a complaint in a civil action is any formal legal document that sets out the facts and legal reasons (cause of action) the filing party or parties (the plaintiff(s)) believes are sufficient to support a claim against the party or parties against whom the claim is brought (the defendant(s)) that entitles the plaintiff(s) to a remedy (either money damages or injunctive relief). (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complaint)
When a problem arises between two (or more) parties the clock begins ticking right away on the time limit within which you can resolve the issues between the parties. But when the ticking begins to get near the end because the statute of limitations is approaching and the issues cannot be resolved, a Complaint is filed and the lawsuit begins. Sometimes a complaint is filed because it is very obvious at the beginning that the parties are not going to agree to any type of settlement so a complaint for damages is filed and the judicial system resolves the claims.
Also as for legal terminology in the criminal courts, an affidavit of complaint is filed against someone for allegedly committing criminal acts. The criminal act committed is set out in the affidavit of complaint as to what officers believe has happened and then the statute that applies to those criminal acts is set forth.
There is one thing for sure – if a complaint of any type has been filed against you it is time to consult an attorney. www.ronkimlaw.com; 877.859-3943.
