commencement of proceedings

In one sentence

The official start of a lawsuit or criminal case in court.

Plain English

Commencement of proceedings is the moment when a case officially begins in the court system. This typically happens when a plaintiff files a complaint or a prosecutor files charges, and the defendant is formally notified. From that point forward, the court has authority over the case and the parties are bound by court rules and deadlines.

Ad slot

Example

When Maria files a criminal complaint against her neighbor for assault, the commencement of proceedings occurs when the court clerk stamps and files the complaint. The neighbor then receives a summons requiring him to appear in court.

Used in a sentence

“The commencement of proceedings in the fraud case took place when the district attorney filed charges with the court.”

Related terms

Summons

A court order requiring someone to appear in court or respond to a lawsuit.

arraignment on indictment

A defendant's first court appearance after being formally charged by a grand jury.

defendant

The person accused of a crime in a criminal case or sued in a civil case.

Evidence

Information, documents, or physical items presented in court to prove or disprove facts.

expert witness

A person with specialized knowledge who testifies in court about technical or scientific matters beyond ordinary understanding.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.