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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 South Carolina, 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 legal complaint and a summons, which is the official notice of the lawsuit. Service of process can be done in several ways, including personal delivery to the defendant. Once served, the defendant has a specific time frame to respond to the lawsuit by filing an answer with the court. In South Carolina, the defendant typically has 30 days from the date of service to file an answer or otherwise respond to the complaint. If the defendant fails to respond within this time 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

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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South-Carolina State Code

South-Carolina State Code

Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

Articles