- Read the summons, complaint, and every attachment45 min
The summons tells where and when — which court, which case number, and that a written response is required. The complaint tells who and how much — who sues, on what account, and for what dollar amount.
Read every attachment too: statements, affidavits, and assignment exhibits decide the standing and limitations steps later. Copy names and numbers exactly as printed, including abbreviations and branch designations — the docket search and the clerk match on exact text.
To do
Put the summons (the paper with the court seal, case number, and response instructions) in one pile and the complaint plus all attachments (account statements, affidavits, assignment exhibits) in a second pile. Keep the envelope.
Copy the exact court name from the summons into the case-facts sheet, including branch and division.
Copy the case or docket number exactly as printed, including letters and hyphens. Later docket searches match on this number.
Note who is named as plaintiff and whether it is the original creditor or a buyer, then record the name exactly as printed.
Copy the dollar amount claimed in the complaint, before interest, costs, or fees. Read every attachment for exhibits showing assignment or account history.
To note down
Copy the exact court name from the summons
Copy the case or docket number from the summons
Who is named as plaintiff?
Dollar amount claimed in the complaint