Legal Definitions - equity pleading

Equity pleading is a system of defining and narrowing the issues in a lawsuit whereby the parties file formal documents alleging their respective positions. It is used in courts of equity.

For example, if a person wants to sue their neighbor for cutting down a tree on their property, they would file a complaint with the court. The complaint would state the facts of the case and the legal claims the person is making against their neighbor. The neighbor would then file an answer, responding to the allegations and stating their own position.

Equity pleading is important because it helps to ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of the issues in the case and can prepare their arguments accordingly. It also helps to prevent surprises during the trial, as both parties are required to disclose their positions and evidence beforehand.