"Complaint" includes a cross-complaint.
§ 481.060.Complaint
Title 6.5. Attachment · Chapter 1. Words and Phrases Defined · Enacted 1974 · no amendments on record · Last verified July 28, 2026
In one sentenceSection 481.060 provides that the word "complaint" includes a cross-complaint wherever it appears anywhere in the Attachment Law, so a defendant who cross-complains gets the same treatment as an original plaintiff.
Full Text of § 481.060
Plain-English Summary
This short definition means a defendant who files a cross-complaint against the plaintiff can invoke the same attachment remedies a plaintiff can, using the same procedures this title sets out for a "complaint." Without this equivalence, a defendant asserting its own money claim by cross-complaint might have no clear path to attachment relief even if the claim otherwise qualifies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a defendant who files a cross-complaint seek attachment?
Yes. Section 481.060 makes "complaint" include a cross-complaint throughout Title 6.5, so a cross-complainant can pursue attachment on the same terms as an original plaintiff.
Does this change who counts as a plaintiff or defendant?
No. Sections 481.070 and 481.180 separately extend "defendant" to a cross-defendant and define "plaintiff" as whoever files the complaint or cross-complaint.
Amendment History
Added by Stats. 1974, Ch. 1516.
Source & verification. Section text is reproduced verbatim from
the Deering's California Codes Annotated / vLex. Enacted by the California Legislature.
Last verified July 28, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: does complaint include cross complaint attachmentcross complaint attachment california