How do you answer a civil summons for a lawsuit?

Try this link for the links to get the forms to answer the lawsuit. Often the Court Rules REQUIRE that you be served with the Response form when you are served with the Summons and Complaint.

Answer

This is more complex than you have actually explained on the board, so I suggest you seek out legal counsel.

Responding To A Civil Suit

The response or "first pleading" is simply giving an answer to each charge/demand.

Best defense if applicable would be, The plaintiff/complainant fails to state a claim against the defendant for which relief could be granted. (Meaning the debt is not valid).

Second best defense, If the defendant is indebted to the plaintiff he/she is also indebted to ....(Meaning there are other parties involved which were not named as plaintiffs).

Third best...Defendant admits to allegations contained in paragraph #'s (whatever paragraphs are applicable) but does not agree to allegations cited in paragraphs #'s (whatever paragraphs are applicable).

Fourth best...The right of actions set forth in the complaint did not accrue within the time set forth by the laws of the defendant's state. (The state's SOL for the action has expired).

It is best for the defendant who is representing themselves to respond with their own wording, as judges are lenient in Pro Se cases.

First answer by Macky. Last edit by Reyn562. Contributor trust: 58 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 149 [recommend question]