How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Utah
The deadline to answer a debt lawsuit in Utah, where to file, and what happens if you don't respond.
Short answer: File an answer within 21 days after you were served in Utah (30 days if served outside Utah), counting every calendar day. You can file an answer through MyCase or use the court's answer form. Utah State Courts, Answering a Complaint (debt collection); Debt Collection self-help page
| Answering a debt lawsuit | File an answer within 21 days after you were served in Utah (30 days if served outside Utah), counting every calendar day. You can file an answer through MyCase or use the court's answer form. Debt cases filed in small claims follow the small claims process instead. Debt collection page: https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/consumer/debt-collection.html |
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| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for an action on a contract, obligation or liability founded on an instrument in writing. For a credit agreement, the 6 years run from the latest of when the debt arose, the debtor's last written acknowledgment or promise to pay, or the last payment by the debtor or a third party. Source: Utah Code 78B-2-309(1)(b), (2) |
| How long a judgment lasts | 8 years from entry of the judgment, or from a renewal of the judgment under the Renewal of Judgment Act. The Utah courts' self-help page notes the judgment must be renewed within 8 years. Court page: https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/consumer/judgment.html |
Where to get help in Utah
More Utah debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Utah
- Wage Garnishment in Utah
- What Creditors Can't Take in Utah
- All Utah debt & collections rules
FAQ
How do I respond to a debt collection lawsuit in Utah?
File an answer within 21 days after you were served in Utah (30 days if served outside Utah), counting every calendar day. You can file an answer through MyCase or use the court's answer form. Debt cases filed in small claims follow the small claims process instead.
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Utah?
6 years for an action on a contract, obligation or liability founded on an instrument in writing. For a credit agreement, the 6 years run from the latest of when the debt arose, the debtor's last written acknowledgment or promise to pay, or the last payment by the debtor or a third party.
How long does a court judgment last in Utah?
8 years from entry of the judgment, or from a renewal of the judgment under the Renewal of Judgment Act. The Utah courts' self-help page notes the judgment must be renewed within 8 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.