If i am given 20 days to respond to a lawsuit does that include weekends or just business days? Are my 20 days (business days)?
2007-08-13 12:45:09 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
It usually means calendar days, unless the 20th day is a weekend or holiday, then it's the next business day. It's a good idea to get it in as soon as possible so there isn't a chance of any problems. If you're representing yourself, or just need more time, contact the lawyer who represents the plaintiff (it should be on the summons and complaint) and just ask for an extension of two weeks or so ... it's pretty standard, even between lawyers, so it shouldn't be a problem.
2007-08-13 12:55:37 · answer #1 · answered by Hillary 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
These rules vary from state to state but usually if the calculation is to use business days (usually called "court days" in pleadings), the directions on the summons will say "court days" or "business days." If it just says "days," it is most probably just calendar days, including weekends and holidays. However, if the final day falls on the weekend or a holiday, you usually have til the next business/court day to file your response. Don't rely on that though, be safe and file your answer BEFORE the holiday/weekend so they can't take your default.
If you need more time, most lawyers will usually grant a short (10-15 days) extension if you call well ahead of time. Don't call at 4 o'clock on the day your response is due and ask for an extension, you won't get it. Call a week or two before.
2007-08-13 13:06:21 · answer #2 · answered by mcart108 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If in doubt, assume the SHORTEST time possible. If you have 20 business days but respond in 20 calender days, you are fine. If you have 20 calender days, but don't respond for 20 business days, your response is late and may not be accepted.
I don't know the actual law, but I promise my answer won't get you in trouble anywhere.
2007-08-13 14:35:04 · answer #3 · answered by STEVEN F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually it states if its business days or otherwise. Either that or it usually has a day stated on the papers for your final date. I would go with all days just to be safe, but you can call the attorneys office that served you the papers. They are usually very helpful with things even though they have the petitioner as a client. They do whatever possible to get things done like they should be
2007-08-13 12:53:18 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
as was already stated ,it should say on your paperwork. however, just make sure you respond before the deadline or you will automaticly lose. and DONT call the lawyer that sent you the lawsuit call ANY other lawyer they will advise you correctly as they want your business and they will have your best intrest in mind. several lawyers offer a free cosultation so act quickly so you have time to respond in your BEST intrest.
2007-08-13 13:00:44 · answer #5 · answered by dennis s 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You don't say where you are, but usually it is 20 regular days, including the weekends.
2007-08-13 12:56:02 · answer #6 · answered by raichasays 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
likey business days but why wait til go now
2007-08-13 13:02:17 · answer #7 · answered by infoman89032 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋