When a plaintiff (person or entity) files a lawsuit, the person or entity being sued is generally known as the defendant. The defendant is served with (usually handed in person) a copy of the lawsuit, accompanied by information stating the time within which the defendant must file an answer to the lawsuit—usually 20 to 30 days after receipt of the lawsuit.
In Missouri, when a plaintiff initiates a lawsuit, the party being sued is referred to as the defendant. The defendant must be served with a copy of the lawsuit, which is typically done in person. This service includes a summons that informs the defendant of the time frame in which they are required to respond to the lawsuit. Under Missouri law, the defendant generally has 30 days to file an answer or other responsive pleading after being served with the lawsuit. This time frame is established by the Missouri Rules of Civil Procedure. If the defendant fails to respond within the specified period, the plaintiff may seek a default judgment from the court.