When a plaintiff (person or entity) files a lawsuit, the person or entity being sued is generally known as the defendant. The defendant is served with (usually handed in person) a copy of the lawsuit, accompanied by information stating the time within which the defendant must file an answer to the lawsuit—usually 20 to 30 days after receipt of the lawsuit.
In Kentucky, when a plaintiff initiates a lawsuit, the party being sued is referred to as the defendant. The defendant must be served with a copy of the complaint and a summons, which is the official notice of the lawsuit. Service of process can be done in several ways, including in-person delivery. Once served, the defendant has a specific time frame to respond to the complaint, typically by filing an answer with the court. In Kentucky, the defendant generally has 20 days to file an answer if the service is made within the state, and 30 days if the service is made outside the state. These time limits are established by the Kentucky Rules of Civil Procedure. If the defendant fails to respond within the allotted time, the plaintiff may seek a default judgment from the court.