Answer Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Answer.

Answer (noun, verb)

1. Noun: In legal context, an answer refers to the formal written response by a defendant to a civil or criminal complaint, accusation, or lawsuit made against them. It generally details the defendant's version of the facts and addresses each of the allegations made, accepting or denying them.

2. Verb: As an action, to answer refers to the act of responding to a lawsuit or charge. It involves providing a formal, written statement that accepts, denies or challenges the allegations made in the legal complaint.

Example: In the case of a battery accusation, the accused (defendant) would provide an 'answer' to the charges, stating their own account of events and whether they accept or deny the accusation.