Sued in small claims court? Don’t ignore the paperwork. Learn how to file a proper answer and protect yourself—before it’s too late.
Small claims court is designed to be fast, affordable, and accessible—no lawyers required. But make no mistake: if you’re the defendant, how you respond matters. Filing an answer isn’t just a formality—it’s your opportunity to challenge the lawsuit and present your side of the story.
This guide breaks down how to file an effective answer, what defenses you can raise, and what to expect after you respond.
An answer is your official response to the complaint filed against you. It’s your chance to:
Admit or deny the plaintiff’s allegations
Explain your side of the dispute
Raise legal defenses
File a counterclaim, if you believe the plaintiff owes you money
In most small claims courts, you don’t need a lawyer—but you do need to respond on time.
Deadlines vary by state, but typically, you must file your answer within 10 to 30 days after being served.
📌 If you don’t respond:
The court may issue a default judgment against you
The plaintiff may collect by garnishing your wages or placing liens on your property
You may lose the right to dispute the claim
⏳ Tip: Can’t meet the deadline? Request an extension from the court before the due date.
Even though the rules are simpler in small claims court, your answer should still be organized. Here’s a basic format:
Include the court name, case number, and the names of both parties.
Respond to each numbered allegation in the complaint:
✅ Admit if it’s true
❌ Deny if it’s false or misleading
🤷 Lack of knowledge if you don’t have enough info to say either way
List any legal reasons why you believe the plaintiff should not win. (See common defenses below.)
If the plaintiff owes you money, you can add a counterclaim. For example:
"Plaintiff owes Defendant $500 for a returned item that was never refunded."
Sign your answer, file it with the court, and serve a copy to the plaintiff.
Use these defenses if they apply to your case:
Statute of Limitations: The claim is too old to be legally valid
Improper Service: You weren’t served according to legal rules
Lack of Jurisdiction: The court isn’t the right one to hear the case
Full Payment: You already paid or resolved the dispute
Fraud or Misrepresentation: The plaintiff made false or misleading claims
📎 Pro Tip: Attach copies of contracts, receipts, or communications to support your claims.
Some courts offer mediation to resolve the issue without trial.
If mediation fails, you’ll attend a hearing before a judge.
Each party presents their side
Witnesses and documents may be introduced
Judges usually give their decision on the spot or shortly after
If the judge rules in the plaintiff’s favor, you may owe money. However, in some jurisdictions, you can appeal—but timelines for appeals are short, so act quickly.
Responding to a small claims complaint with a well-structured answer is your first—and best—chance to defend yourself. Even without a lawyer, you can make a strong case by being organized, timely, and clear about your defenses.
💼 Let Legal Husk Help You Respond with Confidence
We specialize in helping individuals and small business owners navigate small claims court—from drafting clear answers to preparing persuasive defenses.
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🧠 Pro Tip: Always keep copies of every document you file or receive—you might need them at the hearing or on appeal.
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