Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Missouri

fed and state law

how long does a party have to reply to a lawsuit? what is the federal and state law nrs if you have them.

as this is a multiple suit against 3 people do all people have to respond or will 2 respondants work.

my uderstanding is defendant has 20 days to respond or he loses by default.

if you can help please let me know

thanks


Asked on 1/16/06, 6:44 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Anthony DeWitt Bartimus, Frickleton Robertson & Gorny, PC

Re: fed and state law

The questions you are asking are very serious. Under state court (where the action is filed in a "Circuit Court" or "Associate Circuit Court") the response time is 30 days.

In Federal court, the response time is 20 days. Answers must be filed by all parties. If a party is sued by fails to respond, default judgment is routinely given.

Answers are very technical, detail-oriented pleadings that have binding effect. Admission ofa fact in an answer establishes that fact without the need for further proof. For these reasons, it is vital to retain an attorney to assist you.

Good luck

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Answered on 1/17/06, 9:51 am
Richard Stevens The Stevens Law Firm

Re: fed and state law

the summons shold tell you when a reply or appearance must be made - this varies in different courts. each person named must reply.

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Answered on 1/17/06, 10:33 am


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