Cause of Action
The bundle of facts that gives a person the right to sue.
Detailed Meaning
A cause of action is the set of facts which, if proved, entitles the plaintiff to a judgment against the defendant. It must be complete and must have actually arisen (not merely be anticipated) before a suit is instituted; a plaint that discloses no cause of action is liable to be rejected.
Authoritative Sources & Provenance
Relevant Legislation
- The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'cause of action' in a lawsuit?
A cause of action is the bundle of essential facts that, taken together, give a person the legal right to sue another — a plaint that does not disclose a complete cause of action is liable to be rejected at the threshold.
Related Concepts
General legal information for reference only, reviewed for accuracy but not a substitute for advice from a qualified advocate on your specific facts.