What standard did Twombly and Iqbal establish for federal complaints?

• A. Plead plausibly with factual content that allows a reasonable inference of liability.
• B. Plead with only conclusory statements, leaving factual gaps.
• C. Plead with every element supported by documentary evidence.
• D. The complaint must include a formal affidavit from each plaintiff.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is a plausibility standard for federal complaints. Twombly and Iqbal say a plaintiff must plead facts, not just legal conclusions, in a way that makes a claim for relief plausible. In practice, that means the complaint should allege enough factual detail to permit a reasonable inference that the defendant is liable for the claimed harm. Purely conclusory statements, without supporting facts, are not enough. This marks a shift from the older notice-pleading approach, where simply reciting the elements could survive a motion to dismiss. It’s not required to attach documentary evidence or affidavits at the pleading stage; discovery can uncover more facts, but the complaint itself must contain enough factual content to show a plausible claim.