The Reply
The reply is the π's response to a ∆'s counterclaim upon the π. Also, when court orders reply to ∆'s answer.
- Why do we counterclaim?
- We're already in court, and you already paid the filing fee, so...
- To offset the damage costs of a.π's claim
- Preclusion purposes (some causes of action can only be brought as counterclaims)
- Note: you can default on a counterclaim if you don't reply to it—even if you are the original plaintiff.