In non-criminal matters, most circuit court cases begin with what type of legal document?

In non-criminal matters, most circuit court cases typically begin with a complaint. A complaint is a formal legal document that outlines the plaintiff's allegations against the defendant, detailing the relevant facts, legal claims, and the relief sought from the court. It serves as the foundation of the case, establishing the basis for the court's jurisdiction and the specific issues to be addressed.

The complaint sets the stage for the litigation process by notifying the defendant of the claims being brought against them, allowing them to prepare a response. It is the first step in civil litigation, marking the transition from informal disputes or negotiations to formal judicial proceedings.

Other legal documents, such as a citation or summons, play different roles in the legal process. For instance, a summons is typically issued after a complaint is filed and is served to inform the defendant of the action taken against them, while a writ is often used to command a specific action by a lower court or an individual and is less common as an initial filing document.