What document typically initiates most non-criminal circuit court cases?

The document that typically initiates most non-criminal circuit court cases is a complaint. A complaint serves as the formal legal document submitted by a plaintiff in a civil case, outlining the grievances and the basis for the court's jurisdiction. It sets forth the facts of the case and the legal claims against the defendant, thereby providing the foundation for the court's proceedings.

In the context of civil law, the complaint officially notifies the opposing party that a lawsuit is being filed and typically includes a request for relief, which can be in the form of monetary damages, specific performance, or other remedies sought by the plaintiff. This document is crucial because it establishes the issues at hand and guides the court's understanding of the case.

Other documents, such as an indictment or information, are primarily used in criminal cases to formally charge an individual with a crime. A summons, while important, functions mainly to notify the defendant that they are being sued and directs them to respond but does not initiate the legal action itself. Thus, the complaint is the correct answer as it specifically pertains to the initiation of non-criminal circuit court cases.