If a complaint is not verified you can answer with a general denial pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure § 431.30(b) and generally deny all of the allegations of the complaint. However you should also be sure to include specific affirmative defenses that are tailored to the individual case.
Typically, a plaintiff verifies a complaint by attaching a page at the end containing a statement made under oath that: The plaintiff has reviewed the complaint. The plaintiff knows or believes that all allegations that the plaintiff has personal knowledge of to be true.
In Civil Law, an “answer” is the first formal response given by the defense to a complaint filed with the court by the plaintiff. This opening written statement will admit or deny the allegations, or demand more information about the claims of wrongdoing.
An unverified complaint is a legal document that has not been signed or sworn to under oath by the person making the complaint.
Except when otherwise specifically provided by rule or statute, pleadings need not be verified or accompanied by affidavit. An unsigned paper shall be stricken unless omission of the signature is corrected promptly after being called to the attention of the attorney or party.
SECTION 446 When the complaint is verified, the answer shall be verified.
(c) The requirement that a document be verified means that the document must be signed or executed by a person and that the person must state under oath or affirm that the facts or matters stated or recited in the document are true, or words of that import or effect.
When the complaint is verified, the answer shall be verified.
A pleading must be in writing and must be signed by all persons joining in it. All pleadings filed in proceedings under the Probate Code must be verified. If two or more persons join in a pleading, it may be verified by any of them.