pleadings Formal written statements in a civil action, usually drafted by counsel, served by a party on his opponents, stating allegations of fact upon which the party pleading is claiming relief, but not the evidence by which the facts are to be proved. Must contain particulars of any claim on which party pleading relies. Usually consist of statement of claim (in summary form); defence; reply. Intended to eradicate irrelevant matters, to state precisely issues in dispute and to allow the other party time to prepare reply.