§ 25-31-406 Time for answer or appearance

Codes > Montana Code > Title 25 > Chapter 31 : Part 4 > 25-31-406 Time

25-31-406. Time for answer or appearance

    The time specified in the summons for the appearance of the defendant must be as follows:

    (1) if an order of arrest is endorsed upon the summons, immediately;

    (2) in all other cases, the summons must provide that the defendant shall answer in writing, file the answer, and serve a copy upon the plaintiff or the plaintiff's attorney within 20 days after service of the summons, exclusive of the day of service, and in case of the defendant's failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against the defendant by default for the relief  demanded in the complaint.