ABA Family Legal Guide

How the Legal System Works

The Civil Trial: Step by Step

Commencing Legal Proceedings and Procedures Before Trial

What are the defendant's options after being served with the complaint and summons?

At this point, most defendants will hire a lawyer to prepare their defense to the suit. The defendant's lawyer will determine when the defendant needs to respond to the complaint, discuss the details of the complaint with the defendant, and review the complaint and summons to be certain that it meets all legal requirements. If the complaint appears defective, legally or factually, the defendant may file a motion with the court.