Who is the respondent in a civil case in Texas?

The party you sue is usually called the Respondent in a civil case, but may be referred to as the Defendant. (See Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 99.) The Respondent may file a response to your lawsuit, called an Answer or counter-claim, with the court clerk. Gather Information.

What does pro se mean in civil court?

The Court has prepared this manual for you as someone who is interested in filing a lawsuit or must appear in a lawsuit pro se, or without a lawyer. “Pro se” is Latin phrase meaning “for himself” or “for herself.” It will help you understand the basics of the legal process but will not teach you about the law.

What should I do if I was served with a lawsuit in Texas?

If you are using eFile Texas, there is an Answer form on the eFile Texas Self Help website. File a Counter-Petition if you want to make your own claims against the Petitioner. The Answer by itself does not make claims against the Petitioner.

When do you have to answer a summons in Texas?

In Texas justice courts and small claims courts, you have 14 days from the date of service to file your answer. In county or district court, you count 20 days from the date of service, then proceed to the next Monday. Your answer will be due by 10:00 AM that Monday, unless Monday is a legal holiday.

Where can I find forms for pro se litigants?

Correspondence available upon request regarding the Forms from the Commission Chair, the Family Law Section Chair, the State Bar President, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas

How are small claims cases handled in Texas?

Introduction to Small Claims. Small claims are cases filed in the justice court system in Texas in which litigants often resolve legal disputes on their own without having to hire a lawyer. Small claims are more informal than district or county courts and do not require the same extensive knowledge of the law or court rules and procedures.