A lawsuit is a legal dispute between two or more parties that is resolved by a court of law. In a lawsuit, one party, known as the plaintiff, files a complaint against another party, known as the defendant, alleging that the defendant has committed a wrong or violated a legal duty. The plaintiff seeks a remedy, which may involve monetary compensation, an injunction, or other forms of relief.

Lawsuits can arise from various issues, including contract disputes, personal injuries, property disputes, or violations of rights. The process typically involves the filing of legal documents, pre-trial procedures such as discovery, and a trial where both parties present their evidence and arguments. A judge or jury then reaches a verdict or decision based on the merits of the case.

Lawsuits are a fundamental aspect of the judicial system in many countries and serve to enforce the law and resolve conflicts between individuals, businesses, and government entities.