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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 Pennsylvania, 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, which is the official notice of the lawsuit. Service of these documents is typically done in person, although there are other methods of service allowed under certain circumstances. Once served, the defendant has a specific time frame to respond to the complaint, which is generally 20 days if the service is made within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and 30 days if the service is made outside the Commonwealth. This response is known as an 'answer' and it is the defendant's formal response to the allegations made by the plaintiff in the complaint. Failure to respond within the allotted time can result in a default judgment against the defendant, meaning the plaintiff may win the case automatically.

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Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Pennsylvania State Code

Pennsylvania State Code

Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

Articles