To respond to the lawsuit, fill out an answer and appearance form. Next, complete the certificate of service form. Then, file your forms with the court within 20 days of receiving the summons. Finally, deliver your completed paperwork to the plaintiff (the person suing you).
In a Nutshell It's important to respond to (or answer) the lawsuit. You do this by filing official paperwork with the court. Be sure to address every point in the complaint, raise any defenses you have, and file the paperwork within the time frame provided.
The Notice can be served only by (1) a person over the age of 18 who is competent to be a witness and is not a party to the action, or (2) the sheriff or a deputy of the county in which the court is located. Instead of personal service, the Notice can be sent to the defendant by registered or certified mail.
The court rules provide you with 10 business days from the day you received the summons to notify the Plaintiff or their attorney that you intend to defend yourself. At this stage, you should contact an attorney to seek legal assistance and advice regarding the claim against you.
This Confirmation of Service form is essential for legal procedures in Washington State. It verifies the service of legal documents to defendants in family law cases. Use it to ensure all parties are notified appropriately.
There are a number of potential defenses to a debt collection lawsuit. For example, Washington has a strict statute of limitations (time limit) for debt collection. If a debt falls outside of the statute of limitations, it is considered a time-barred debt – and you can request that the lawsuit be dismissed.
Someone age 18 or older besides you must hand deliver the papers to the other party, or to someone old enough living at their home. The person who delivers the papers is your "server." You do not need court permission for personal service. Personal service is usually the cheapest way to get the other party served.
Process servers in Washington State will make up to three (3) tries to deliver your documents, regardless of your chosen service level. We keep up to date with your due diligence requirements and will ensure that we attempt service in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Court papers could be left at your door with or without you present, but only under certain circumstances. The answer to this question requires more information to be provided, such as the type of document, the document's court of origin and service attempt history on the respondent or defendant.