What does the 'prayer' in a complaint typically request?

The 'prayer' in a complaint serves as a vital component that specifically outlines the relief or remedy that the plaintiff is seeking from the court. It articulates the desired outcome of the legal action and details what the plaintiff hopes to achieve, such as compensatory damages, injunctive relief, or punitive damages. This part of the complaint is crucial because it informs the defendant and the court of the nature of the claims being made and the specific legal remedies being pursued.

The other options, while related to aspects of legal proceedings, do not accurately define the function of the 'prayer.' For instance, a request for the case to be dismissed pertains to a motion that can be filed by the defendant and does not fit within the framework of the complaint's prayer. Likewise, a summary of evidence or a statement of costs are not typically included in the prayer; rather, they are addressed elsewhere in legal documents or during proceedings. Thus, the demand for relief or remedy encapsulated in the prayer is essential as it directs the focus of the court on what the plaintiff ultimately seeks from the legal process.