How to Respond to a Civil Summons in Washington Deadlines, Defenses, and Next Steps

When you are served with a civil summons in Washington, the clock starts immediately. Whether the case involves debt collection, a contract dispute, property damage, or another civil claim, failing to respond on time can result in a default judgment against you. Understanding the required deadlines, the possible defenses, and the next steps can protect your rights and prevent serious legal consequences.

Understanding the Deadline: You Have 20 Days to Respond

In most Washington civil cases, you must file a written response within twenty days from the date you were served. This is a strict deadline. If you do not respond, the plaintiff can request a default judgment, which allows them to win the case automatically without presenting evidence.

A proper response must be filed with the court and served on the opposing party or their attorney. Simply calling the plaintiff or attempting to negotiate outside the court process does not stop the deadline from running.

How to Respond to a Civil Summons: Answer or Notice of Appearance

Most defendants respond by filing either:

An Answer

This is a formal document where you:

  • Admit or deny each allegation in the complaint
  • Assert any affirmative defenses
  • Request dismissal or other relief
  • Protect your right to participate in the case

A Notice of Appearance

This preserves your rights even if you are not ready to file a full Answer. It prevents the plaintiff from obtaining a default judgment without giving you notice.

Both documents must comply with Washington court rules and must be properly served.

Possible Defenses to Raise

Defenses must be asserted early, or they may be waived. Common defenses in Washington civil cases include:

Lack of Personal Jurisdiction

The Washington court may not have authority over you based on your residency, contacts with the state, or service of process.

Insufficient Service of Process

If you were not served properly under Washington law, the court cannot proceed.

Failure to State a Claim

Even if the allegations are true, the plaintiff may not have stated a valid legal claim.

Statute of Limitations

Many civil claims must be filed within a certain time period. If the deadline has passed, the case may be barred.

Payment, Performance, or Discharge

In contract or debt cases, proving payment or fulfillment of obligations can defeat the claim.

Improper Party or Misidentification

You may have been sued incorrectly or for someone else’s obligations.

These are only examples. The appropriate defenses depend on the type of case and the specific facts.

What Happens After You Respond to a Civil Summons

Once your Answer or Notice of Appearance is filed and served, the case moves into the next phase:

1. Discovery

Both sides exchange documents, written questions, and evidence. Depositions may be taken.

2. Motions

Either party may file motions to dismiss the case, narrow issues, or challenge evidence.

3. Settlement Discussions

Many Washington civil cases resolve through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration.

4. Trial

If the case does not settle, a judge or jury will hear the evidence and issue a decision.

Each step has deadlines and procedural rules that must be followed.

Responding to a civil summons without legal guidance can be overwhelming. Washington’s court rules are technical, and errors can lead to a loss of important defenses or even default judgment. An experienced attorney can help evaluate the claims, prepare your response, assert all available defenses, and guide you through the next stages of the case.