How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Oregon
The deadline to answer a debt lawsuit in Oregon, where to file, and what happens if you don't respond.
Short answer: You must appear and defend (usually by filing an answer or motion with the court clerk) within 30 days from the date you were served with the summons. ORCP 7 C(2); ORCP 15 A
| Answering a debt lawsuit | You must appear and defend (usually by filing an answer or motion with the court clerk) within 30 days from the date you were served with the summons. Source: ORCP 7 C(2); ORCP 15 A |
|---|---|
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied. Oregon uses the same period for written and oral contracts. Source: ORS 12.080(1) |
| How long a judgment lasts | Judgment remedies for a civil judgment expire 10 years after entry. Before they expire, the creditor may file a certificate of extension once, which extends them for another 10 years from the filing. Source: ORS 18.180(3), 18.182(1), (5) |
Where to get help in Oregon
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, Division of Financial Regulation (registers collection agencies)
- File a complaint or claim
More Oregon debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Oregon
- Wage Garnishment in Oregon
- What Creditors Can't Take in Oregon
- Medical Debt Protections in Oregon
- All Oregon debt & collections rules
FAQ
How do I respond to a debt collection lawsuit in Oregon?
You must appear and defend (usually by filing an answer or motion with the court clerk) within 30 days from the date you were served with the summons.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Oregon?
6 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied. Oregon uses the same period for written and oral contracts.
How long does a court judgment last in Oregon?
Judgment remedies for a civil judgment expire 10 years after entry. Before they expire, the creditor may file a certificate of extension once, which extends them for another 10 years from the filing.
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.