Meanings of commenced a suit in English

As a comical conclusion to these extraordinary proceedings, Hastings commenced a suit in the U.S.

Of course, the then owner disputed his claim; upon which he commenced a suit in the Vice-Admiralty Court.

I assumed a fictitious name, took private lodgings in Poland-street, retained lawyers, and commenced a suit for separation against my lord.

An opportunity was offered soon after, when I commenced a suit for damages against Mr. Sherwood, who was the great stage proprietor of those days.

Sir Marcus, too, mourned for the loss of his young kinsman, but instantly commenced a suit which terminated by making poor Lawrence Brindister his ward.