Who is referred to as a litigant?

A litigant is defined as a person or entity that is actively involved in a lawsuit. This encompasses anyone who brings a case to court (the plaintiff) as well as anyone who is being sued (the defendant). The term highlights the role of these parties in the legal proceedings, distinguishing them from other participants such as attorneys, judges, or witnesses.

Understanding this term is crucial for grasping the dynamics of legal actions, as litigants are the central figures around whom the entire case revolves. Their rights, duties, and responsibilities are significant in the context of the judicial process, making it clear that their involvement is fundamental to the practice of law.