Discuss in brief the important stages in the proceedings of a suit under The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.

The important stages in the proceedings of a civil suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 are as follows: Presentation of Plaint - According to Order 4, of CPC, every suit shall be instituted by Presentation of Plaint. Service of Summons - According to Order 5, when a suit has duly been instituted, a summons may be issued to the defendant by the court. Filing of Written Statement, set off and Counter claims - According to order 8, the defendant shall, within 30 days from the date of service of summons on him, present a written statement to his defence. This is subject to the proviso to said rule, which may allow to file within 120 days on payment of costs. Appearances of Parties - According to Order 9, the parties should appear on the day fixed by summons. Examination of Parties - Order 10, the court examines the parties to the court. Framing of Issues - The court frames the Issues according to Order 14. Hearings - The court hears the parties according to Order 18. Judgement - The court pronounces the decree according to Order 20.