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PLD-PI-001Optional

COMPLAINT—Personal Injury, Property Damage, Wrongful Death

California · Judicial Council of California · Effective January 1, 2024

This form is used to start a lawsuit in court when someone claims they were hurt, their property was damaged, or someone died due to the actions of another party. It asks the court to officially begin the case and lists the main claims being made.

The court describes it as: Tells the court and the other side that you are starting a lawsuit based on personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death, and the general allegations you are making against the other side. Must have one or more causes of action attached.

Open the official PDFfrom Judicial Council of California

Where this fits in a case

Start a case

Stage: Start a case

This form is used by a person or group to file the initial paperwork when they are starting a civil lawsuit related to personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death.

Usually filed by the person starting the case.

Common questions

Who fills out this form?
The plaintiff, who is the person starting the lawsuit, fills out this form. It can also be filled out by an attorney.
What does this form ask for?
It asks the court to officially recognize the lawsuit and details the types of damages and causes of action being claimed. It requires attaching one or more causes of action.
Is there a fee mentioned?
The form does not mention any specific filing fees.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect January 1, 2024.

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