Alternative Pleading Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Alternative Pleading.

Alternative Pleading (noun)

Alternative pleading is a method in legal practice where the plaintiff or defendant presents two or more different sets of facts or claims, even though some may contradict each other, as a means to establish a favorable outcome. This process is performed simultaneously in a single document or pleading. Although the example provided gave an overview of an arraignment, these cases can sometimes involve an alternative pleading if a defendant for instance, pleads 'not guilty' while also providing a possible defense, such as self-defense.