How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Arizona
The deadline to answer a debt lawsuit in Arizona, where to file, and what happens if you don't respond.
Short answer: Many debt cases are filed in Justice Court. In a small claims case (up to $5,000), the defendant must file a written answer and pay the answer fee within 20 days after service. A.R.S. § 22-514; A.R.S. § 22-522
| Answering a debt lawsuit | Many debt cases are filed in Justice Court. In a small claims case (up to $5,000), the defendant must file a written answer and pay the answer fee within 20 days after service. A defendant who does not answer risks a default judgment. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 22-514; A.R.S. § 22-522 |
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| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for a debt based on a written contract signed in Arizona. If another state's limitations period conflicts, Arizona's 6-year rule applies to these debts. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 12-548(A)(1), (B) |
| How long a judgment lasts | A judgment can be enforced for 10 years after it is entered. It can be renewed by affidavit, or by a lawsuit brought on it, within each 10-year period; each renewal gives another 10 years. Renewal by affidavit is under A.R.S. § 12-1612 (not separately reviewed). Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 12-1551 |
Where to get help in Arizona
- Arizona Attorney General, Consumer Protection (collection agency licensing: Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions)
- File a complaint or claim
More Arizona debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Arizona
- Wage Garnishment in Arizona
- What Creditors Can't Take in Arizona
- Medical Debt Protections in Arizona
- All Arizona debt & collections rules
FAQ
How do I respond to a debt collection lawsuit in Arizona?
Many debt cases are filed in Justice Court. In a small claims case (up to $5,000), the defendant must file a written answer and pay the answer fee within 20 days after service. A defendant who does not answer risks a default judgment.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Arizona?
6 years for a debt based on a written contract signed in Arizona. If another state's limitations period conflicts, Arizona's 6-year rule applies to these debts.
How long does a court judgment last in Arizona?
A judgment can be enforced for 10 years after it is entered. It can be renewed by affidavit, or by a lawsuit brought on it, within each 10-year period; each renewal gives another 10 years.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.