How Long Do You Have to Answer a Complaint in Ohio?
In Ohio, you generally have 28 days to file an answer to a complaint after being served with it.
What Happens If You Don't Answer?
Failing to respond to a complaint within the allotted time can have serious consequences. The court may:
- Enter a default judgment against you, which means the plaintiff wins the case automatically without a trial.
- Award the plaintiff all the relief requested in the complaint, including damages, injunctive relief, or other remedies.
Exceptions to the 28-Day Rule
There are some exceptions to the 28-day rule:
- The court may grant you an extension of time if you have a good reason, such as illness or an unforeseen circumstance.
- Certain types of cases have different deadlines for filing answers. For example, in eviction cases, you may only have a few days to respond.
What Should You Do?
If you've been served with a complaint, it's crucial to seek legal advice immediately. An attorney can help you understand the specifics of your case, determine your legal options, and file a timely and appropriate response.
Remember:
Don't underestimate the importance of a timely and effective response to a complaint. Failure to do so could have significant legal and financial consequences.