What is a cross-complaint?

A cross-complaint is a legal document that is filed in court by a defendant against the plaintiff in the same lawsuit. In Minnesota, it is an official response to a complaint that was initially filed by the plaintiff. The defendant can file a cross-complaint to make a counterclaim against the plaintiff. A cross-complaint also allows the defendant to bring in any additional parties who the defendant believes is involved in the dispute and who should be a part of the lawsuit. In Minnesota, if a defendant wants to file a cross-complaint, they must file it before the deadline the court has given to the plaintiff to respond to the initial complaint. A cross-complaint should explain why the defendant believes the plaintiff is wrong and why the defendant should win the case. Once it is filed, the plaintiff will be notified and given the opportunity to respond to the cross-complaint. A cross-complaint can help or hurt the defendant. It can help by allowing them to present their own version of events and to bring in additional parties. Conversely, it can hurt by giving the plaintiff more facts to use against the defendant and the added parties. Therefore, it is important to think carefully before filing a cross-complaint.

Related FAQs

What is the difference between a motion to dismiss and a motion for a more definite statement?
What is the purpose of a deposition?
What are the rules and procedures for jury selection?
What is a motion to change venue?
What is a writ of attachment?
What is the burden of proof in civil cases?
What is the difference between a motion to intervene and a motion to join a case?
What are the rules for joinder of parties in a civil suit?
What are the court procedures for filing a motion?
What is the doctrine of laches?

What is a cross-complaint?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts