How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Oklahoma
The deadline to answer a debt lawsuit in Oklahoma, where to file, and what happens if you don't respond.
Short answer: Serve an answer within 20 days after you are served with the summons and petition. A defendant may file a reservation of time, which extends the deadline by 20 days but waives certain defenses. 12 O.S. 2012(A)
| Answering a debt lawsuit | Serve an answer within 20 days after you are served with the summons and petition. A defendant may file a reservation of time, which extends the deadline by 20 days but waives certain defenses. The plaintiff may elect a 35-day answer period, which will be stated in the summons. Source: 12 O.S. 2012(A) |
|---|---|
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 5 years for an action on a contract, agreement or promise in writing. Source: 12 O.S. 95(A)(1) |
| How long a judgment lasts | A judgment becomes unenforceable if, within 5 years after it is filed (and within each later 5-year period), the creditor does not issue and file an execution, file a notice of renewal of judgment, have a garnishment summons issued, or send a notice of income assignment. Doing any of these keeps it alive for another 5 years. Source: 12 O.S. 735 |
Where to get help in Oklahoma
More Oklahoma debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Oklahoma
- Wage Garnishment in Oklahoma
- What Creditors Can't Take in Oklahoma
- Medical Debt Protections in Oklahoma
- All Oklahoma debt & collections rules
FAQ
How do I respond to a debt collection lawsuit in Oklahoma?
Serve an answer within 20 days after you are served with the summons and petition. A defendant may file a reservation of time, which extends the deadline by 20 days but waives certain defenses. The plaintiff may elect a 35-day answer period, which will be stated in the summons.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Oklahoma?
5 years for an action on a contract, agreement or promise in writing.
How long does a court judgment last in Oklahoma?
A judgment becomes unenforceable if, within 5 years after it is filed (and within each later 5-year period), the creditor does not issue and file an execution, file a notice of renewal of judgment, have a garnishment summons issued, or send a notice of income assignment. Doing any of these keeps it alive for another 5 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.