What Is an Answer?

Imagine you just received a Utah Divorce Complaint from your spouse.

You’re understandably nervous because probably don’t know what to do. How do you respond? Do you have to respond? What does a response look like?

Maybe you take to the internet and figure out you have to file what’s called an Answer. But what is an Answer, really?

In essence, an Answer is a set of reactions to the allegations and requests your spouse made in the Divorce Complaint.

In an Answer, you either “admit” or “deny” each separate allegation and request made.

And when I say each separate allegation and request, I mean it. If you do not address each allegation and request, a judge will assume you admit that allegation or are okay with that request.

Answers require pretty specific language so you are clear about what you are denying and what you are admitting. Here is a sample of the language we use in our Answers (keep in mind: you, as the answering party, are the Respondent):

Admit All

Respondent admits the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X of the Divorce Complaint.

Admit All (Multiple Subparts)

Respondent admits the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X and subparts X(x) through X(x) of the Divorce Complaint.

Admit Part, Deny Part

Respondent admits (explain what is admitted), but denies all other allegations contained in ¶ X of the Divorce Complaint.

Admit Part, Deny Part (Multiple Subparts)

Respondent admits the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X and subparts X(x) through X(x) of the Divorce Complaint. Respondent denies the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X(x) of the Divorce Complaint.

Deny All        

Respondent denies the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X of the Divorce Complaint.

Deny All (Multiple Subparts)

Respondent denies the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X and subparts X(x) through X(x) of the Divorce Complaint.

Without Knowledge

Respondent is without knowledge sufficient to either confirm or deny the claims and allegations contained in ¶ X of the Divorce Complaint; and, therefore, denies them.

Legal Conclusion

The allegations contained in ¶ X of the Divorce Complaint represent a legal conclusion and not an allegation of fact; and Respondent, therefore, denies the allegations.

Exhibits

Respondent denies the claims and allegations contained in Exhibits X-X.

Prayers for Relief

Respondent denies Petitioner’s Prayers for Relief X-X.

Hope that helps explain what an Answer is and the type of language and structure it requires.

For more on what happens once a Divorce Complaint is filed in Utah, read here.