NALA Certified Paralegal Practice Exam 2026 - Free Paralegal Practice Questions and Study Guide

Pleadings are defined as written statements filed with the court that set forth the parties' claims, defenses, and relevant issues in a legal action. They form the foundation of the litigation process, allowing each party to formally state their position and outline the essential facts and legal arguments upon which their case is based. Common examples of pleadings include complaints, answers, counterclaims, and motions that initiate or respond to legal proceedings.

The other options refer to different aspects of legal proceedings. Spoken statements in court pertain to oral arguments and witness testimonies, which occur during the trial but do not constitute pleadings. Documentary evidence presented at trial is used to support or refute claims made in the pleadings but is distinct from the written documents themselves. Affidavits submitted by witnesses are usually statements made under oath, used to support a particular fact or argument, but these are not classified as pleadings either. Understanding the role of pleadings is essential for grasping how legal disputes are structured and processed within the court system.