Written Statement
The defendant's formal written reply to the plaint.
In Simple Terms
The other side's official written response to the lawsuit against them.
Detailed Legal Meaning
A written statement is the defendant's pleading responding to each averment in the plaint — admitting, denying, or stating lack of knowledge of each fact — and setting out any additional facts or legal grounds of defence, including a set-off or counterclaim where applicable. It must generally be filed within the time the CPC and the court's directions allow.
Relevant Acts & Sections
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908Search on India Code ↗
Order VIII
Common Court Usage
Filed after service of summons; a failure to specifically deny an averment can result in it being deemed admitted.