Rule 144.02 Allegations of Petition or Counterclaim Considered Denied

When someone files a small claims case against you and you show up to court, the law automatically treats your side as "denying" the claim. This happens whether or not you filed any written response ahead of time. You don't lose your right to fight the claim just because you didn't submit paperwork explaining your side.

This means you can still bring up any defense you have during the hearing, even if you never wrote it down or filed it with the court beforehand. The judge will let you explain your side and present evidence as if you had formally listed your defense in writing.

The only way the claim against you counts as accepted is if you actually agree to it. Simply showing up to court and not filing paperwork does not mean you agree with what the other person is claiming. You keep your right to argue your case.