In the previous chapter, we explored the world of the plaintiff’s complaint, in which the plaintiff raises allegations against the defendant and seeks to build a case for compensation that should be paid by the defendant. In this chapter, we examine all of the aspects of the defendant’s answer, including admissions, denials, the consequences for failing to deny the plaintiff’s allegations, counterclaims, cross-claims, and other elements of third-party practices. Before we can address those other issues, we must first consider the question of what exactly an answer is.

After reading this chapter, you will be able to:

Describe how an answer matches the allegations of the plaintiff’s complaint.

Describe the minimum requirements of a legally valid answer.

Explain the process of raising affirmative defenses in an answer.

Define 12(b)(6) motions.

Explain counterclaims.

Discuss cross-claims.

Compare and contrast impleader with interpleader.

Discuss class-action lawsuits.

Draft an answer containing a counterclaim.