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addressing a counterclaim (apex)
Even though a counterclaim comes by way of an answer, you should consider like a complaint. You have 20 days to answer a counterclaim.
The other party made a bad counterclaim, which was backed up by their lawyer.
The rule applies whether or not a compulsory counterclaim statute or rule of court exists.
If you are the plaintiff by counterclaim - that means you were the defendant in a previous claim and are now offsetting that claim with a counterclaim. You reverse your role with this action and point the finger back at the original plaintiff.
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You need to research the applicable law in your jurisdiction. Some require you to file an answer to the counterclaim to avoid default, and some do not.
Counterclaim may have declined due to a lack of evidence, the presence of contradictory information, or a change in circumstances that weakened its validity or relevance. It is also possible that the counterclaim was not properly presented or argued, leading to its rejection.
flawed
a cross claim
To refute a claim with a counterclaim, you must support your argument with evidence to ensure the validity of your claims.