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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 Utah, 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 process can be done in several ways, including in person, which is often required to ensure the defendant is aware of the legal action. Once served, the defendant has a specific time frame to respond to the lawsuit by filing an answer with the court. Under Utah Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 12(a), a defendant generally has 21 days to file an answer if they are served within the state of Utah. If the defendant is served outside of Utah but within the United States, they have 30 days to respond. The answer must address the allegations made by the plaintiff and can also raise defenses and counterclaims. Failure to respond within the allotted time can result in a default judgment against the defendant, granting the plaintiff the relief sought in the complaint.

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Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Utah State Code

Civil procedure

defendant's answer to lawsuit

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