Once served with a citation and petition, how long does the defendant have to answer in district or county court?

The correct response indicates that a defendant has 20 days to file an answer after being served with a citation and petition in district or county court. This timeframe is important as it sets the stage for how quickly a defendant must respond to a lawsuit. The 20-day rule helps ensure that legal proceedings move forward in a timely manner, maintaining judicial efficiency and allowing the plaintiff an opportunity to pursue their claims without unnecessary delay.

Understanding this timeframe is essential for both defendants and plaintiffs, as it impacts the strategies employed in litigation. If the defendant fails to answer within this period, they may risk a default judgment being entered against them, further emphasizing the importance of adhering to this timeline in civil process practice.