Q: What does answered or unanswered I a divorce final judgement paper mean ?
:What does answered or unanswered In a divorce final judgement paper mean ?
A: A divorce complaint may receive an answer and counterclaim from the defendant. These are usually filed within 20 days from the date of service by constable. In our Rhode Island Family courts, if the defendant appears they are considered "Answered." But, if they have not filed an answer and counterclaim, they may be defaulted and denied any relief. If they do not appear nor file any affirmative pleadings, they are considered "Unanswered." This also usually effects the number of witnesses required for the hearing. Processing your own divorce is risky as your mistakes may have long reaching and substantial consequences such that I would strongly advise anyone to engage one of our family court attorneys to assist you in navigating the process.
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