What happens if a defendant does not answer to civil compliant against them which was served by the police?

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What happens if a defendant does not answer to civil compliant against them which was served by the police?

I’m suing someone for Defamation and Slander. She has 45 days to respond. What happens if she chooses not to?

Asked on May 26, 2012 under Personal Injury, Georgia

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

If the defendant does not file an answer to the complaint with the court and serve it on you by mail within the time set forth in the summons, you can contact the court in writing and request that a default be entered.  A default judgment means you have won the case and the judgment should be in the amount of damages you are requesting in your lawsuit.

However, if the defendant files a motion to set aside the default and the court grants the motion, the case will be back on track and litigation will continue.


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