Legal Definitions - counteraction

Counteraction is a legal term that refers to a type of claim made by a defendant in response to a plaintiff's claim. It is also known as a counterclaim.

For example, if a person sues another person for breach of contract, the defendant may file a counterclaim for damages caused by the plaintiff's actions. This is a way for the defendant to seek relief and defend themselves in the same lawsuit.

There are two types of counterclaims: compulsory and permissive. A compulsory counterclaim is one that must be asserted in the same lawsuit because it relates to the same subject matter as the plaintiff's claim. A permissive counterclaim is one that does not have to be asserted in the same lawsuit because it does not relate to the same subject matter as the plaintiff's claim.

Overall, counteraction is a legal tool that allows defendants to assert their own claims and seek relief in response to a plaintiff's claim.