What term is used for the person who initiates legal action against another party?

The term that identifies the person who initiates legal action against another party is known as the plaintiff. This individual is bringing a lawsuit to court, claiming that they have suffered a loss or injury due to the actions of the other party, which is referred to as the defendant. The plaintiff seeks a remedy or compensation for their grievances through the legal system.

In the context of litigation, the role of the plaintiff is crucial, as they must present evidence and arguments to support their claims. Understanding the distinction between the plaintiff and other legal terms, such as the defendant or appellee, is important in grasping the roles of various participants in a legal proceeding. The term "claimant" is often used in insurance and less formal legal contexts to refer to someone making a claim, but specifically within the structure of a lawsuit, "plaintiff" is the correct designation for the person who initiates the action.