Who is considered the defendant in a civil matter?

In a civil matter, the defendant is the individual or organization that is being sued. This term is a fundamental part of the legal process, distinguishing the parties involved. The defendant is the one who responds to the allegations made by the plaintiff, who is the party initiating the lawsuit. The role of the defendant is critical because they must present their defense against the claims made and have the opportunity to dispute the plaintiff's arguments.

In contrast to this, the other roles in a civil lawsuit include the plaintiff, who brings the complaint, the judge, who makes legal decisions and ensures the trial proceeds according to legal standards, and the jury, which may listen to the evidence and render a verdict based on the information presented. Understanding the defendant's role is essential for grasping the dynamics of legal proceedings and how responsibilities and rights are allocated in a civil context.