Answer
The reduction, elimination, or suspension of a legal proceeding, charge, or financial obligation.
What is Answer?
An answer is a formal written response by a defendant to a plaintiff’s complaint, addressing each allegation, admitting or denying them, and stating any defenses. It is filed with the court to initiate the defendant’s official participation in the case.
Why It Matters?
It establishes the defendant’s position, preserves rights, and allows the case to proceed through litigation.
Example
A defendant files an answer denying negligence claims in a personal injury lawsuit and asserting contributory negligence as a defense.
Related Terms
Mediation
Litigation