WHAT IF YOU ARE SUED?

If you are sued, you must file an answer within 14 days of the day you were served with the citation and the petition. The answer can be a simple denial of all the plaintiff's allegations. It must be in writing and filed with the court. You must also serve it on the plaintiff.

If you fail to file an answer within 14 days, a default judgment could be entered against you. A default judgment cannot be entered against you if you file an answer or otherwise appear in the case.

If you are sued, do not forget the date of your hearing. At the hearing, take any documents, witnesses, pictures, or other evidence that proves you are not responsible for the damages the other party claims you caused.