2.02.110 [Rule 8] Defenses, Answers; Counterclaims

(a) Within twenty (20) days after a defendant receives a copy of a civil complaint and summons, he or she must answer the complaint in writing. The Defendant must sign the answer, file it with the Clerk, and cause it to be served upon and delivered to the plaintiff If the defendant is not able to prepare a written answer, he or she shall explain to the Clerk the nature of the defense which will be presented, and the Clerk shall help the defendant to put the answer in writing, on the form provided for that purpose by the Rules of the Court.

(b) In addition to or as a way of raising a defense to the complaint, a defendant may file a complaint/counterclaim against plaintiff, following the same rules which apply to complaints.