How much time do I have to act?
You have 30 days to file anAnswer form or other legal forms after you’re handed (served) theSummonsandComplaintforms.The 30 days include Saturdays, Sundays, and court holidays. Day 1 is the day aftertheSummonsandComplaintwerehanded to you. If the last day falls on a weekend or court holiday, you have until the close of business the next day the court is open.
You have more time to file anAnswer or other response if theforms were given to someone at your home or work instead of you and then a copy was mailed to you (this is calledsubstituted service).
If you were served by substituted service, you have 40 days after the server mailed theSummonsandComplaintto youto file a response.
If you don't file anAnsweror other response forms by the deadline, the plaintiff can file papers to ask the judge to decide the case without your input.
