Being sued is a big deal for most people and most businesses. How (and when) you respond is important. Once you are served, the clock starts ticking and there are deadlines that must be met. This is not a time to put the documents away because the lawsuit is not going to go away.
If you are served with a lawsuit following a car accident, and if you have insurance, you will want to let you insurance carrier know. Most often, people contact their insurance agent. The agent will typically put the insured in touch with the necessary people.
What if the matter does not involve a matter covered by insurance? What if it is a breach of contract or business dispute? What if the suit involves a real estate transaction? In situations like these, it’s time to do your research, select and call an attorney. Do not delay in doing your homework about who you want to retain. It may take a few days to get in with the attorney. Remember, there are deadlines that must be met when responding to a lawsuit.
As part of your defense, you may need to gather documents, review records or do other investigation before responding to the lawsuit. Your attorney will need your assistance in preparing a response.
So, don’t delay. The consequences of not responding may be irreversible. The consequences of not responding may impact your assets, bank account or income. The law allows for a specific period of time to respond to a lawsuit and it is important to get an early start.
Tommy Santel is a co-founding partner of Santel | Garner. Tommy is a former government prosecutor. He is a Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 General Civil Mediator. Tommy’s practice areas include criminal defense and civil litigation.
This blog is made available by Santel | Garner for educational purposes only as well as to provide general information and a general overview of the law, not provide specific legal advice. By using this blog and website, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and Santel | Garner . This blog and website should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed attorney in your state.