In Detroit, Michigan, a Defendant's Answer to Complaint is a legal document filed by the defendant in response to a complaint filed against them in a court of law. This document serves as the defendant's formal response to the allegations made in the complaint and is an important step in the legal process. The Defendant's Answer to Complaint is typically filed after the defendant has been served with the complaint and has had a chance to review its contents. It allows the defendant to present their defenses, disputing or denying the allegations made by the plaintiff. There are different types of Defendant's Answer to Complaint that may be filed in Detroit, Michigan, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. These include: 1. General Denial Answer: This type of answer is used when the defendant wishes to deny all or most of the allegations made in the complaint. It typically contains a list of numbered paragraphs, with each paragraph corresponding to a specific allegation in the complaint. The defendant then either admits or denies each allegation or states that they do not have sufficient knowledge or information to admit or deny. 2. Affirmative Defenses Answer: In some cases, the defendant may acknowledge certain allegations made in the complaint but assert affirmative defenses. These are legal arguments and facts that, if proven true, would defeat the plaintiff's claim, even if the allegations in the complaint are true. Affirmative defenses must be specifically pleaded in the Answer to Complaint to be considered. 3. Counterclaims or Cross-Claims: In certain situations, the defendant may file a counterclaim or cross-claim along with their Answer to Complaint. A counterclaim is a separate legal action initiated by the defendant against the plaintiff, asserting their own claims against the plaintiff. On the other hand, a cross-claim is a claim made by the defendant against a co-defendant in the same lawsuit. These claims must be relevant to the original case and are included in the Answer to Complaint to avoid separate legal actions. In Detroit, Michigan, it is crucial for defendants to file their Answer to Complaint within the specified timeframe set by the court rules. Failure to file a timely response can result in a default judgment being entered against the defendant, leading to adverse legal consequences. In summary, a Defendant's Answer to Complaint in Detroit, Michigan is a formal document filed by the defendant in response to a complaint. It enables the defendant to address the allegations made against them, including denials, admissions, or affirmative defenses. Additionally, defendants may also file counterclaims or cross-claims if relevant to the case. Prompt and accurate filing of the Answer to Complaint is vital to protect the defendant's rights and participation in the legal process.