Commencement of Action
/kəˈmɛnsmənt əv ˈækʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) The formal initiation of a lawsuit or legal proceeding typically by filing a complaint or petition with the court and serving it to the opposing party.
The commencement of action occurred when the plaintiff filed the complaint with the court.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term is critical in determining the timing for procedural deadlines and the accrual of rights; precise timing affects statutes of limitations and court jurisdiction.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.