Plain-English Definition
A formal written request asking the court to take action. Used to start certain types of cases or to request specific orders.
Legal Meaning
A formal written request to a court seeking a specific order or relief. Petitions initiate certain proceedings (e.g., family law, habeas corpus) and may also be used to request orders within an existing case.
Etymology Review
From Latin petitio, meaning a request or seeking, from petere, “to seek, ask, or request.”
Do Not Confuse With
- Complaint
Misuse Warning
A petition and a complaint are similar but used in different types of cases. Using the wrong one can cause procedural delays.
Boundary Note
Lexicon provides general legal and procedural information for educational purposes. It does not provide legal advice, legal representation, legal interpretation for a specific case, strategy, document preparation, or professional judgment. Meanings can vary by jurisdiction, facts, and procedural posture.