In equity courts, which party initiates the legal action?

In equity courts, the party that initiates the legal action is referred to as the petitioner. This terminology is used to distinguish equity cases from those in common law courts, where the initiating party is typically called the plaintiff. The concept of a petitioner highlights the nature of equity law, which often seeks to provide remedies or justice that are not strictly monetary or available through common law.

Equity courts have a distinct purpose in addressing issues such as fairness and justice, often dealing with matters like trusts, estates, and family law. The distinction of the term 'petitioner' underscores the proactive role that this party plays in seeking equitable relief. In contrast, the other terms—respondent, defendant, and plaintiff—are more commonly associated with either common law or different contexts within the litigation process.

Thus, when someone initiates action in equity, they do so as a petitioner, reflecting the specific processes and traditions of equity law.