Dear [Defendant's Name], RE: Answer and Affirmative Defenses to Defendant's Cross claim I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing on behalf of [Plaintiff's Name], the plaintiff in the above-mentioned case, to address the defendant's cross claim and present our response, along with affirmative defenses. Please consider this letter as an official response to the cross claim filed by the defendant. Answer to Defendant's Cross claim: 1. Having reviewed the defendant's cross claim, we categorically deny all the allegations made against [Plaintiff's Name]. We deny any liability for the damages claimed by the defendant. 2. As per the defendant's cross claim, it is alleged that [Plaintiff's Name] was negligent in [state specific allegations]. However, we firmly dispute these allegations and intend to prove our innocence throughout the proceedings. Affirmative Defenses: 1. Contributory Negligence: The defendant's own negligent actions contributed significantly to the incident in question. [Provide specific details supporting this defense]. 2. Lack of Proximate Cause: The defendant's cross claim fails to establish a direct link between [Plaintiff's Name]'s actions and the alleged damages. The alleged damages are not a direct result of any action or inaction on our part. 3. Statute of Limitations: We assert that the defendant's cross claim should be barred due to the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations. [Provide specific details regarding the statute of limitations and its expiration]. 4. Assumption of Risk: It is our contention that the defendant willingly assumed the risks associated with [the incident] and, therefore, should bear the responsibility for any resulting damages. 5. Failure to Mitigate Damages: The defendant failed to take reasonable steps to mitigate or minimize the damages claimed. [Provide specific details supporting this defense]. Please note that the above-listed affirmative defenses are provided without prejudice to any other defenses we may raise during the course of this litigation. We respectfully request that the defendant's cross claim be dismissed and that any damages claimed therein be denied. [Plaintiff's Name] is fully prepared to vigorously defend our interests and pursue all necessary legal remedies to protect our rights. Please acknowledge receipt of this response and ensure that all parties involved in this case are duly informed. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Title/Organization] [Your Contact Information]