How to File a Civil Answer in Kings County Supreme Court

You received a summons and complaint for a lawsuit in Kings County Supreme Court. You need to respond quickly.

In New York, you have 20 days to answer if served in person. You get 30 days if served any other way.

Your answer confirms whether you admit or deny the allegations. It also outlines any affirmative defenses you have.

Kings County Supreme Court helps defendants who don’t have an attorney. You can file your answer there and serve it to all parties.

Responding to a debt lawsuit protects your rights. Our partner Solo helps you answer debt collection lawsuits quickly and correctly.

What You Need to Include in Your Answer

The Caption

The caption is the heading at the top of the page. Fill it out exactly as written on the summons and complaint.

Include your name and the plaintiff’s name exactly as shown. Don’t change anything, even misspellings.

The right side features a case number from the court clerk. Call the court if you don’t have a case number.

Your Responses to the Allegations

This section responds to numbered paragraphs in the complaint. You have three response options: admit, deny, or deny for lack of knowledge.

The plaintiff must prove their allegations unless you admit them. Admitting statements usually results in judgment against you.

Deny facts you don’t know to be accurate. For example, if a debt collector claims they’re licensed, you can deny for lack of knowledge.

Your Defenses Against the Plaintiff

You can list legal or technical defenses in this section. New York law allows multiple affirmative defenses.

State your defenses in your answer or lose this right. Common defenses include:

• The statute of limitations has expired
• The plaintiff lacks legal standing
• Improper service of the lawsuit
• Identity theft or mistaken identity

Your Address and Signature

Include your name, email, and address at the top. Sign and date the last page of the form.

Make your signature legible. If the creditor sued you and your spouse, both must sign.

Three Methods for Filing Your Answer

You can file your answer using one of three methods. Your choice depends on how you were served.

If you received an e-filing notice, file online through NYSCEF. Otherwise, choose mail or in-person filing.

E-file an Answer on NYSCEF

The New York State Electronic Filing System handles all state housing cases. You’re not restricted to a particular courthouse.

Visit https://www.nycourts.gov/efile to confirm your case is available online.

Create an account if you’re a new user. Returning users can log in and check the filing checklist.

NYSCEF doesn’t create court papers for you. You must upload finished documents yourself.

For forms and help, visit https://nycourts.gov/courthelp/.

Print the documents and make two copies. Sign and date each form before uploading.

Ensure the plaintiff receives your answer before the deadline expires. You typically have 20 days from service.

Mail Your Answer to the Clerk and Plaintiff

Mail your answer at least seven days before the deadline. Request tracking and delivery confirmation from the post office.

Print the documents and make two copies. Sign and date each form.

Your chosen delivery method must ensure timely receipt. The plaintiff must get your answer within 20 days of service.

Answer the Allegations In-Person

You can present a written answer at Kings County Supreme Court in person. Don’t wait until the last minute.

The court has health and safety requirements. You may not be able to enter immediately.

After filing, the court provides a virtual conference date with the judge. Call to reschedule if you can’t attend.

Requirements for Filing the Answer

• Fill out the original and make three extra copies
• Send the original to the Supreme Court clerk
• Send one copy to the judge
• Send another copy to the plaintiff or their attorney
• Keep one copy for yourself
• Ensure the clerk date-stamps all copies

Pay the filing fee through the Supreme Court clerks. You can request a waiver if you can’t afford it.

Fee waiver applications are free to file. Ask the clerk for the proper forms.

How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit

Our partner Solo makes responding to debt lawsuits straightforward. The step-by-step process asks all necessary questions.

You complete your answer by responding to each question. Then print the forms and mail them to court.

You can also have Solo file your answer for you. An attorney can review your document before filing.

Responding quickly protects your rights and gives you a fighting chance. You avoid default judgment when you file on time.