Complete the Summons and Complaint and file these documents in the Civil Filing Department,. The answer must be filed with the Clerk of Court in the county in which the plaintiff brought his claim and it must be filed within the time specified on.This packet is designed to assist with the preparation of forms for responding to a civil lawsuit filed against you. Magistrate Summons: You'll need three copies of the Magistrate Summons form. Before you file your lawsuit, you must fill out a complaint form. The clerk of court has different complaint forms for different kinds of problems. Feel free to call our consumer assistance line at (919) 716-6000 should you need help completing the form. Before You File a Complaint. Step 1: Get the necessary paperwork from the Civil Clerks Office or. You must visit the Clerk of Court in the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.