How do you answer summons?

Answer 1

You don't really answer the summons, you answer the complaint that comes with the summons. The complaint will have individual paragraphs making general factual allegations, such as "defendant signed a promissory note on a car loan for $5,000." You have to write an Answer that addresses each individual allegation. They should be in numbered paragraphs to match the paragraphs in the complaint. You will either admit some allegations if they are true, deny some that are untrue and simply leave plaintiff to prove ones you are unsure of. You are also expected to raise affirmative defenses yourself. If you do not know them you should check with a lawyer to see if any apply. The danger in not raising affirmative defenses is that you might not be able to use them in your defense at a later time.
A Summons is served with a Complaint by a process server. Process is served according to the civil procedure laws of your State. Once you are lawfully served, you are considered to be on notice of the pendency of the lawsuit, even if this is constructive notice only.

The Complaint specifies the specific counts in and of the lawsuit, and asks for relief from the court. State civil procedure laws vary, but there is a limited time in which to serve an Answer on the opposing party, usually on the order of two to three weeks. If you fail to file an Answer in that time, you will have a default entered against you.

Retain an attorney at law to draft an Answer, as this is a court pleading that only an educated and experienced practitioner will know how to fully and effectively draft, file and serve. Do not prejudice your rights by being dilatory or failing to act.

If you receive a summons in a criminal matter, immediately retain an attorney at law specifically experienced in criminal practice.