Read the Law for District Court: Maryland Rule 3-307 If you do not tell the court that you want to fight the case, or if you do not show up at court, the court may presume you do not want to participate in the case. The defendant’s response must be filed within the court’s time limits. For example, simply stating that you cannot afford to pay a debt may not be a good defense in a case, but explaining that the plaintiff claimed the wrong amount of debt may be a good defense. If the case was filed in District Court, the defendant usually files a notice of intention to defend and should include a defense that has merit.

Read the Law for Circuit Court: Maryland Rule 2-323 If the case was filed in Circuit Court, the defendant usually files an answer (though in some cases, the defendant may file preliminary motions before or instead of the answer). The way to respond to the complaint depends on where the case was filed. If you want to fight the case in court, you have to tell the court in writing. The person who sues you is the “plaintiff” in the case. If someone sues you, you are the “defendant” in the case. My Motion to Vacate, or Strike, was not granted.My Motion to Vacate, or Strike, was granted.What is a Motion to Strike/Amend/Vacate a Default Judgment?.How can I respond to a Default Judgment?.What is a Motion to Vacate an Order of Default?.How can I respond to an Order of Default from a Circuit Court?.

How do I know if I have a Default Judgment?.

Notice of default sample