COMMENCEMENT OF ACTION

A civil action is commenced by filing with the court a complaint, petition, or registration of an out-of-state order, judgment, or decree under HRS Chapter 576B or HRS Chapter 583A. As used in these Rules, A complaint @ includes any initial pleading required by statute such as petitions, but does not include registrations filed under HRS Chapter 576B or HRS Chapter 583A. For cases filed under HRS Chapter 576B or HRS Chapter 583A, the registration of the out-of-state order, judgment, or decree shall constitute the initial pleading. As used in these Rules, A plaintiff @ includes any party initiating a civil action including but not limited to cross-plaintiff(s), petitioner(s), cross-petitioner(s), etc. As used in these Rules, A defendant @ includes any party who is responding to a civil action, including but not limited to cross-defendant(s), respondent(s), cross-respondent(s), etc. (Amended March 30, 2022, effective April 25, 2022.)