What is the purpose of a pleading in a civil case?

In a civil case, the purpose of a pleading is primarily to provide a formal written statement of the parties' claims and defenses. This allows each party to state their version of the facts and outline the legal basis for their positions. While the term "pleading" encompasses various types of documents submitted throughout the case, it is integral in initiating the legal process and informing all parties involved about the specifics of the case.

The option that mentions a pre-trial procedure involving the exchange of documents between parties aligns closely with the overall purpose of a pleading. This is part of the broader discovery process, where parties exchange information and evidence to prepare for trial, ensuring transparency and fairness. Thus, it embodies an essential component in the timeline of a civil case.

Other options describe different components of the judicial process, but they do not capture the primary intention of a pleading. For example, summarizing evidence presented at trial or declaring the court's final judgment occurs at different stages and are not functions of a pleading. The interaction with jurors is also not applicable in the context of pleadings, as this relates more to trial procedure rather than the foundation set by legal documents at the outset of a case.