file/initiate a lawsuit

: a tool usually of hardened steel with cutting ridges for forming or smoothing surfaces especially of metal

: a shrewd or crafty person

: to rub, smooth, or cut away with or as if with a file

: defile, corrupt

: to arrange in order for preservation and reference

: to place among official records as prescribed by law

: to send (copy) to a newspaper

: a device (such as a folder, case, or cabinet) by means of which papers are kept in order

: roll, list

: a collection of papers or publications usually arranged or classified

: single file

: any of the rows of squares that extend across a chessboard from one player's side to the other player's side

: to march or proceed in single file

: powdered young leaves of sassafras used to thicken soups or stews

: to cause or facilitate the beginning of : set going

: to induct into membership by or as if by special rites

: to instruct in the rudiments or principles of something : introduce

: initiated or properly admitted (as to membership or an office)

: instructed in some secret knowledge

: relating to an initiate

: a person who is undergoing or has undergone an initiation

: a person who is instructed or adept in some special field

: a suit in law : a case before a court