Who is referred to as the plaintiff in a lawsuit?

The plaintiff in a lawsuit is defined as the person or entity bringing the action against another party, known as the defendant. The role of the plaintiff is to initiate legal proceedings and present their case in court, seeking a remedy or compensation for a perceived wrong. This term encompasses individuals, groups, or organizations that feel their rights have been violated and are taking steps to seek justice through the legal system.

In this context, the other roles in the legal process are distinct, and understanding them clarifies the function of the plaintiff. The defender or defendant is the party accused of wrongdoing and responds to the plaintiff's claims. The judge is the official who presides over the court proceedings and makes impartial decisions based on the law, whereas the lawyer representing the defendant advocates on behalf of the defendant's interests. Each of these roles plays a fundamental part in the legal process, but the plaintiff distinctly stands out as the one initiating the action.