Which legal document formally sets forth the issues in a court case?

The correct answer is the complaint, as it is the legal document that initiates a lawsuit and outlines the issues and claims being brought before the court. The complaint provides a detailed description of the plaintiff's allegations, the factual basis for the case, and the legal theories being asserted. This document is essential for establishing the framework of the case, informing the defendant of the claims against them, and setting the stage for the proceedings.

In contrast, a motion is a request made to the court for a specific ruling or order, but it does not define the issues of the case in the same manner as a complaint. A summons is a document that informs the defendant of the lawsuit and their obligation to respond but does not lay out the specific claims. Lastly, a judgment is a final decision made by the court after the case has been heard, resolving the issues presented but not outlining them initially.