New York City Process Server Practice Test

What is typically included in a complaint?

1. Witness statements

2. A request for damages

3. Evidence to support the case

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: A request for damages

A typical complaint in a legal context primarily informs the court of the plaintiff's claims and the relief sought. This includes a request for damages, which outlines the specific compensation a plaintiff seeks from the defendant. Including a request for damages is essential because it directly communicates the plaintiff's intentions and expectations regarding the outcome of the lawsuit. Regarding witness statements and evidence, while these elements are critical in the broader context of building a case, they are not explicitly part of the initial complaint document. Witness statements are often presented later in the discovery phase of litigation, and concrete evidence is generally submitted in support of claims rather than as part of the complaint itself. Therefore, focusing on the request for damages accurately reflects a fundamental component of a complaint, setting the stage for the legal proceedings that will follow.