In Washington, a defendant must respond to a complaint within 20 days after being served with the summons and complaint (Wash. Super. A party served with a pleading stating a cross claim against another party shall serve an answer thereto within 20 days after the service upon that other party.All forms are available in PDF format unless otherwise noted. The Court recommends opening PDF forms with Adobe Acrobat Reader. On all court forms, fill out the Caption at the very top of the first page. ✓ Print or type the name of the court. Instructions for Order Granting Leave to Amend Pleading. All pleadings shall be in English and prepared in 8½" x 11" format with line numbers in the left vertical margin. All pleadings are to be construed to do substantial justice. This service is approved for e-mail filing of most case filings, pleadings and documents.