This section is from the book "Popular Law Library Vol7 Equity Jurisprudence, Trusts, Equity Pleading", by Albert H. Putney. Also available from Amazon: Popular Law-Dictionary.
The bill in equity is the first step in the case, being filed even before the issuance of process upon the defendant.
A bill in equity performs a two-fold office:
(a) As a pleading, it is a statement of the complainant's case and prays relief.
(b) As an examination of defendant, it seeks a discovery of facts upon which to base a decree.
A bill in equity must contain a statement of all the facts upon which the claim for the relief sought is based. Much greater freedom in the methods of stating the facts is allowed in a bill in equity than in a common law declaration.
 
Continue to: