Define: Claimant

A claimant is an individual or entity that asserts a legal claim or demand for something, typically compensation or relief, from another party. In legal proceedings, the claimant initiates a lawsuit or legal action against the defendant, alleging that the defendant has caused harm or violated their rights in some way. The claimant seeks to prove their case and obtain a favourable judgement or remedy from the court. Claimants can include plaintiffs in civil lawsuits, parties seeking benefits or compensation in administrative proceedings, or individuals making claims against an estate. The term “claimant” is often used interchangeably with “plaintiff” in civil litigation contexts.

The party that initiates a lawsuit (also known as an ‘action’) before a court. By doing so, the claimant seeks a legal remedy; if successful, the court will issue a judgement in his favour and make the appropriate court order (e.g. an order for damages). Following the Woolf reforms of the civil justice system in the late 1990s, the term ‘claimant’ is now preferred to ‘plaintiff’ but has precisely the same meaning.

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.