Defendant

When you receive a Summons, you have 20 days to file a response with the Court. Contact an attorney to discuss the response as soon as possible after receiving the Summons. I will advise you if I can help or refer you to someone who can help. Unfortunately, being sued puts you in a financial crisis. You may not be able to afford an attorney; however, you cannot afford not to have an attorney. If I can help you with the lawsuit, I will discuss a payment plan for my fees. If you do not file a response to the lawsuit within 20 days, the Plaintiff may file a legal document in the Court, which is called a Default. A Default means you failed to respond to the lawsuit. The legal effect of a Default means that you admit all of the statements that are contained in the lawsuit. If the lawsuit is for money, you will receive notice when the Plaintiff files what is called a Motion for Summary Judgment, which will establish the amount of money that you owe as well as any attorney fees and court costs.