In federal court, certain motions under Rule 12 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure postpone a defendant’s deadline to serve an answer. These motions must be filed before a responsive pleading—typically the answer—is due. Once such a motion is…
Under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, a reply to an answer is not required unless the court specifically orders one. This rule often surprises litigants who expect a formal back-and-forth after the defendant files an answer. Rule Framework Federal…
Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(a)(1)(B), a party must serve an answer to a counterclaim or cross-claim within 21 days after being served with the pleading that asserts that claim. This 21-day response window applies regardless of whether the…
Building a trial notebook can feel overwhelming the first time you prepare for trial. But once you have a structure and a clean template, it becomes one of the most powerful organization tools in litigation. What Is a Trial Notebook?…
When you’re served with a complaint in federal court, the clock starts ticking fast. The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) set strict time limits for filing an answer or responsive motion. Missing a federal deadline can result in a…
Federal Rule 26(f) Conference and Initial Disclosure Deadlines – FRCP 26 Quick Reference Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26(f), parties must hold a discovery planning conference at least 21 days before the court’s Rule 16(b) scheduling order deadline. Initial…