Answer
The defendant's formal written response to a complaint, admitting or denying the allegations and raising any defenses.
Encyclopedia entry: Answer
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answer
An answer is a reply to a question or a solution to a problem.
In law, an answer refers to a defendant ’s first formal written statement to a plaintiff ’s initial petition or complaint . This opening written statement will admit or deny the allegations , or demand more information about the claims of wrongdoing. Mostly, an answer includes the defendant’s counterclaims (allegations or claims against the plaintiff) and/or affirmative defenses (legal defenses that can defeat the plaintiff’s claim).
[Last reviewed in June of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.