Q: What do I do if I have been served a Summons and Complaint? A: You should immediately consult an attorney to review your legal problem and how to prepare and address the legal matter properly in order to adequately protect your legal and equitable interests. Generally in California, procedurally you are required to file a responsive pleading within 30 days of the date of service of process. This responsive pleading is usually in the form of an answer or denial. However, in the alternative or concurrently you can file a demurrer, motion to strike, or some other law and motion that can be argued before the court addressing the validity of the complaint. If you fail to file a responsive pleading in the time required by the court, a default judgment can be entered against you.