What term describes a person who begins a civil lawsuit?

The term used to describe a person who initiates a civil lawsuit is "plaintiff." In legal proceedings, the plaintiff is the individual or entity that brings a claim against another party, known as the defendant. The plaintiff seeks a legal remedy or relief through the court system, usually in the form of monetary compensation or specific performance of an obligation.

It's important to understand this role within the context of civil litigation, as it establishes the foundational framework for how disputes are resolved in a legal setting. The plaintiff typically bears the burden of proof, meaning they must provide sufficient evidence to support their claims and persuade the court of their position.

While "litigant" is a broader term that refers to any party engaged in a lawsuit, it does not specifically identify the one who initiates the action. The "defendant," on the other hand, is the entity being accused or sued. The term "executor" pertains to someone appointed to administer a deceased person's estate and is unrelated to the context of initiating a civil lawsuit.