Request — in plain language

Plain language

a formal ask for something to be done or provided, especially in writing or in an official setting like a court or contract

• formal ask
• official request
• written demand
• formal petition

What to watch for

• In everyday English, 'request' just means 'asking nicely.' In legal documents, it often triggers specific obligations or deadlines that must be followed exactly — the plain-language version should convey formality, not casualness.
• Legal 'requests' are often mandatory responses, not optional favors. A translation should not imply the recipient can simply ignore or refuse without consequence.
• The phrase 'at the request of' in contracts creates obligations for the requesting party. Translating it as 'because someone asked' loses the binding nature of the arrangement.
• Court rules distinguish between 'requests' and 'motions' — motions have formal filing requirements and procedures. A plain-language version should preserve whether something is procedurally significant.

Why This Term Is Hard to Translate. "Request" looks like an everyday word, but in legal documents it carries procedural weight. A legal request often creates deadlines, triggers obligations, or starts formal processes. The plain-language version needs to convey that this is not casual asking — it's a documented, potentially binding demand.

What to Watch For.

• Response requirements: Legal requests often require a response by a specific date. The translation should make clear whether action is required.
• "At the request of" constructions: These create obligations for the requesting party and should be translated to show the formal nature of the arrangement.
• Court vs. contract context: In court filings, requests may have specific procedural meanings (like discovery requests). In contracts, they create contractual obligations.

Common Misunderstandings by Non-Lawyers.

• "'Request' means it's optional." (Not in legal documents — ignoring a formal request can have serious consequences.)
• "If I ask nicely, that's a request." (Legal requests are typically written and documented, not casual verbal asks.)

Legal definition

A formal written or spoken ask for something to be done or provided. In legal contexts, a request is usually documented and may require a response by a certain deadline. It can be a party asking a court to take action, one side in a lawsuit asking the other for information, or a contractual provision where one party asks another to do something.

Examples

Where you'll see it

• court filings
• contracts
• discovery requests
• administrative proceedings
• settlement negotiations

Related terms

• motion
• application
• demand
• petition
• notice
• offer of judgment
• stipulation
• subpoena

Word details

Pronunciation

ri-KWEHST

Part of speech

noun

Origin

Old French — from 'requester' — to ask, seek

Domains

contract law, litigation, trial court practice, administrative law

Frequency

very common

Formality

moderate