How long do parties have to respond to pleadings?

In Maryland, parties typically have thirty (30) days to respond to pleadings. This time frame is known as the “time for answer” and is specified in the Maryland Rules of Civil Procedure. A pleading is a legal document filed in court that sets out the facts of a case, which can include a complaint, answer, or motion. The time for answer is triggered by the filing of the pleading, which is when the clock begins ticking on the thirty (30) days. Typically, parties must respond within the allotted thirty (30) days. If they fail to do so, the court could enter a judgment against them by default. Even if a party believes that the pleading is wrong or inaccurate, they must still respond within the thirty (30) days. Otherwise, the court could enter a judgment against them. If a party needs additional time to respond to a pleading, they must ask for an extension from the court. Depending on the circumstances, the court may or may not grant the extension. In conclusion, parties in Maryland typically have thirty (30) days to respond to pleadings. Failure to do so can result in a court entering a judgment against the party. If a party needs additional time, they must ask the court for an extension.

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