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Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

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 Ohio, 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 complaint and a summons. The summons is a legal document that informs the defendant of the lawsuit and specifies the time frame within which they must respond. In Ohio, the defendant typically has 28 days to file an answer or other responsive pleading to the complaint after being served. This time frame is established by the Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure. If the defendant fails to respond within the specified period, the plaintiff may seek a default judgment from the court, which can result in a judgment against the defendant without a trial.

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Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

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Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

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