Terms Used In Alabama Code 30-2-7

  • 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.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.

The defendant is not required to verify the answer by oath, and, whether sworn to or not, it is not evidence in the case, and can have no other effect than to put in issue the allegations of the complaint.