Jurisdictional Countdown Tool

Civil Summons Answer Deadline Calculator

When served with a state court summons and complaint, the defendant must file a formal written response (an Answer, Demurrer, or Motion to Dismiss) within a strict statutory timeframe. Failing to file by the deadline empowers the plaintiff to obtain a default judgment.

Calculate Answer Deadline by State

Please enter the service date above to compute your response deadline.

Computation Rules & Weekend Rollovers

In all 50 states, time computation begins the day after you are served. If the deadline falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or court legal holiday, the deadline extends automatically to the close of business on the next regular business day.