Question from a reader:
I have been sued. It’s a dispute between companies, and the issue is that the equipment does not meet the requirements. If I can’t fit everything into the answer document, I think I will need to prepare an appendix, but how many pages should it be? So far, it looks like it will be about 10 pages
in A4, and around 14 pages of materials in A4 and A3. Is that too much?

Points for Preparing an Answer Document When Facing a Lawsuit

Hello! Today, I want to talk about a somewhat heavy topic: lawsuits. Specifically, I will discuss the preparation of answer documents in disputes between companies. Recently, a reader asked, “I’ve been sued, but my answer document seems like it will be long. What should I do?” This is a problem that many people might face unexpectedly. I also had a bitter experience with a contract dispute involving a company in the past. At that time, I struggled with how to clearly convey my claims. Today, I will share some points about answer documents, including how many pages they should ideally be, based on that experience.

The Role and Importance of the Answer Document

First, let’s reaffirm what an answer document is. An answer document is a written statement that clearly indicates your position in a lawsuit. Its purpose is to organize and present your counterarguments against the opposing party’s claims, helping the court understand your stance. If the answer document is not well-prepared, there is a possibility that your claims may not be treated fairly. This is why the content is important, and it should be crafted carefully over time.

Guidelines for Page Count and Reasons

Now, regarding the specific question of “how many pages should it be?” it is difficult to give a definitive answer. However, as a general guideline, around 10 pages in A4 format, with additional materials bringing it to about 14 pages, is considered acceptable. From my experience, a longer answer document is not necessarily better. Rather, it is important to condense the necessary information. Redundant sections or irrelevant information can be counterproductive. In a lawsuit, the clarity of your claims is crucial, so it is essential to focus on the “key points” to convey your position clearly while adjusting the page count accordingly.

Structure and Content of the Answer Document

So, how should you structure your answer document? Based on my experience, the following flow tends to be smooth: 1. Introduction: Briefly explain the overview of the lawsuit. Touching on the purpose and background of the lawsuit here will help the judge understand the content more easily. 2. Confirmation of Facts: Present your counterarguments against the opposing party’s claims based on specific facts. This part is particularly important. By organizing the facts, your claims will gain more persuasive power. 3. Legal Basis: Introduce legal perspectives that support your claims. Having a legal basis strengthens your arguments. 4. Conclusion: Finally, clearly state the outcome you are seeking. Without this, the purpose of the lawsuit can become ambiguous. By keeping this structure in mind, you can create a solid answer document. Of course, the addition of materials is important, but they should be treated as supplementary documents, with a strong main text being the essential foundation.

Choosing Supporting Materials

Now, let’s discuss points for preparing materials. You mentioned that you have 14 pages of A4 and A3 materials, but it’s important to use them effectively. Materials should support your claims and should be limited to the essentials. For example, the following types of materials can be effective: – Copies of contracts – Records of negotiations – Evidence for fact verification (such as photos or email exchanges) However, the materials you actually use must be sufficient evidence to convince the court. Therefore, eliminate unnecessary materials and choose strong documents that support your claims.

Conclusion

Finally, as a mindset when preparing your answer document, it is important not to forget to maintain your emotions. Lawsuits can be emotional, but it is necessary to calmly and clearly convey your position. When I experienced a lawsuit, I initially felt anxiety and impatience, but by preparing thoroughly, I was able to feel more at ease. No matter how many pages it seems to be, if you can effectively communicate your claims, the court should be convinced. I sincerely hope your lawsuit proceeds smoothly! The first step may be challenging, but take your time and move forward steadily.