This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
Comply With the Relevant Federal, State, and Local Rules. Research Before Writing. Allege Subject Matter Jurisdiction, Personal Jurisdiction, and Venue. Jurisdiction. Draft Concise and Plain Statement of the Facts. Factual Allegations. Draft Separate Counts for Each Legal Claim. Plead Facts With Particularity Where Necessary.
Draft your pleading on legal paper and include your identifying information and a caption that states the involved parties and case number. Draft the body with numbered paragraphs, double spacing, clear headings, and page numbers. Include a certificate of service in your submission.
“Pleading paper” is the format required for filing documents in court when there is no pre-printed form available. This pleading paper is blank and can be used anywhere 28-line paper is accepted. Check your court's local rules for other format requirements such as fonts, font size, and line spacing.
All pleadings have the same basic structure,5 starting with the caption at the top of the first page. The caption states the name of the court at the top and, on the right side of the pleading, the type of pleading,6 the case number (or docket number), and the name of the judge.
The key to drafting a successful pleading is to make sure that you have a clear idea of what the claims are that your client is making and relevant proof for each of those claims. Then you should state the events in a chronological and logical order.
For example, a legal pleading might involve a complaint from a homeowner that a roofer did not adequately perform a repair, resulting in a leak in the roof and damage to the home. The roofer could then file an answer to the claim, denying culpability.
To start aligning your text, use exact line spacing instead of single or double spacing. The pleading line number spacing is set to exactly 24 pt, so you have to ensure that the side numbering matches the spacing of the text, which should also be set to 24-point spacing.
(a) Format Requirements. All pleadings, motions, and other papers filed with the court shall be legibly written or printed. The use of letter-size paper (8-1/2 by 11 inches) is mandatory. The writing or printing shall appear on only one side of the page.
An application to the court for an order shall be by motion which, unless made during a hearing or trial, shall be made in writing, shall state with particularity the grounds therefor, and shall set forth the relief or order sought.
Unless agreed by the parties and with the permission of the court, all discovery shall be completed within 60 days of the demand, or 90 days of service of the summons and complaint, or counterclaim, or cross complaint, whichever is longer.