(a) In any medical tort action, the party against whom the complaint, counterclaim, or cross-claim is made at any time may request a statement setting forth the nature and amount of the damages sought. The request shall be served upon the complainant, counterclaimant, or cross-claimant who shall serve a responsive statement as to the damages within fifteen days thereafter. In the event a response is not served, the requesting party may petition the court with notice to the other parties, to order the appropriate party to serve a responsive statement.

Terms Used In Hawaii Revised Statutes 671-4

  • Answer: The formal written statement by a defendant responding to a civil complaint and setting forth the grounds for defense.
  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Counterclaim: A claim that a defendant makes against a plaintiff.
  • Damages: Money paid by defendants to successful plaintiffs in civil cases to compensate the plaintiffs for their injuries.
  • Tort: A civil wrong or breach of a duty to another person, as outlined by law. A very common tort is negligent operation of a motor vehicle that results in property damage and personal injury in an automobile accident.
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.
(b) If no request is made for a statement setting forth the nature and amount of damages sought, the complainant, counterclaimant, or cross-claimant, as the case may be, shall give notice to the other of the amount of special and general damages sought to be recovered, either before a default may be taken, or in the event an answer is filed, at least sixty days prior to the date set for trial.

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