Civil Procedure · CPC, 1908
The Life Cycle of a Civil Suit
From filing the plaint to enforcing the decree — the seven stages of a civil suit.
Stage 1
Institution
The suit begins when the plaintiff files a plaint in the proper court.
Order IV · S. 26Stage 2
Summons
The court issues summons calling upon the defendant to appear and answer.
Order V · S. 27Stage 3
Written Statement
The defendant files a written statement — the reply, defences and any set-off or counter-claim.
Order VIIIStage 4
Framing of Issues
The court frames the issues — the precise points of fact and law in dispute.
Order XIVStage 5
Trial & Evidence
Both sides lead evidence; witnesses are examined and cross-examined, followed by arguments.
Order XVIIIStage 6
Judgment & Decree
The court pronounces judgment; the decree formally follows from it.
S. 33 · Order XXStage 7
Execution
The successful party enforces the decree to obtain the fruits of the litigation.
S. 36 · Order XXI