I got sued. What do I do?
Plain-English guides for people who have never been sued before. No legal jargon.
If you just received a complaint, start with the first article. These guides explain the first response step, default, proof of service, and fee waivers in plain English — without sounding like a law review or a sales pitch.
I got sued. What do I do first?
The first steps to take when you have been served and do not know what the papers mean. Start here.
Read guideHow do I respond to a debt collection lawsuit?
A plain-English overview of the response process — what it is, why it matters, and what deadlines to watch.
Read →DefaultWhat happens if I ignore the lawsuit?
What can happen if no response is filed. How a default is entered, what it allows the other side to do, and what your options may be.
Read →Common questionDo I need a lawyer?
When self-filing may be possible and when lawyer help may be important — a practical guide without a sales pitch.
Read →Debt collectionSued by a credit card company? Start here.
What's happening with credit card and debt buyer complaints — how to read the complaint and what to do first.
Read →FilingWhat is Proof of Service?
When you file your Answer, you have to send a copy to the other side. Here's what Proof of Service means and how it works.
Read →Fee waiverCan I ask the court to waive the filing fee?
How court fee waivers work, the income requirements, and the confidential filing rules you need to know.
Read →Ready to prepare your Answer?
Upload your complaint and see your case summary before paying anything.
Start My Answer — $299AnswerFirst is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or attorney representation. AnswerFirst helps prepare documents based on user-provided information. You are responsible for reviewing all documents before filing. Court rules and deadlines vary. Consider consulting a licensed attorney.