Which of the following best describes the term "litigant"?

The term "litigant" refers specifically to an individual or entity engaged in a legal dispute that is being resolved through the court system. This encompasses parties who are either bringing a claim (the plaintiff) or defending against a claim (the defendant) in a lawsuit.

Understanding this definition is crucial, as it highlights the primary role of litigants in the legal process—their direct involvement and stake in the outcome of the litigation. In contrast, a witness, while an important part of court proceedings, does not qualify as a litigant since they do not have a direct role in the dispute between the parties. A legal document filed in court, such as a complaint or a motion, is a procedural tool used within the litigation process but does not represent a party itself. Lastly, a lawyer represents the interests of a litigant in court but is not the litigant themselves; rather, they act on behalf of the party involved in the lawsuit. Thus, the term "litigant" is accurately defined as any individual or entity involved directly in a lawsuit.