How to File a Counterclaim in Maryland District Court
- 1). Answer the civil complaint. The Maryland rules of civil disclosure require that a defendant in a civil lawsuit respond with a written response to a civil complaint. The answer, or notice of intent to defend, states your response to the allegations and whether you agree or disagree with the allegations.
- 2). Include in your answer a counter-complaint form. Go to the clerk's office where the complaint was filed and ask for a counter- or cross-complaint form. The Maryland court system does not charge to file a counter-complaint.
- 3). Complete the form stating your claim and the amount of money you are seeking. The Maryland rules of civil procedure allow a respondent 15 days to file an answer and an additional 10 days to file the counter-complaint.
- 4). Turn the completed forms over to the clerk and have them stamped, filed, and entered in the record. The clerk will provide you with the date of the hearing. Take a copy of your counterclaim and send it to the plaintiff by certified mail. Keep the green return receipt card when it is mailed back to you.
- 5). Attend the hearing and present your claim and the evidence to support your allegations.
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