The ________ are the documents the parties file with the court when they first state their respective claims and defenses.

A) summons
B) pleadings
C) appeals
D) clauses

Pleadings

The documents the parties file with the court when they state their claims and counterarguments early in a civil case. Examples include the complaint and the answer.

Summons

A legal document issued by a court that notifies an individual or entity of the initiation of legal proceedings against them and compels their appearance in court.

Appeals

The process of seeking a higher court's review of a lower court's decision in hopes of reversing or modifying the decision.