Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 420 : CALIFORNIA CODE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE — OF CIVIL ACTIONS — OF THE PLEADINGS IN CIVIL ACTIONS — THE PLEADINGS IN GENERAL — Definition TEXT PDF The pleadings are the formal allegations by the parties of their respective claims and defenses, for the judgment of the Court. Ca. Civ. Proc. Code § 420 Enacted 1872.