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Minnesota answer to complaint deadline
Quick answer
In Minnesota, you generally must respond to a complaint within 21 days after service of the summons (Minn. R. Civ. P. 12.01).
Minn. R. Civ. P. 12.01
AI-assisted — Minnesota rules pending attorney verification; confirm against the cited rule.
AI-assisted — verify independently. Minnesota deadline rules here are AI-generated and pending attorney review. Confirm against the cited rule and your local court before relying on this.
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How the deadline works
Under Minn. R. Civ. P. 12.01, the answer is due within 21 days after service of the summons. Rule 12.01 was amended effective January 1, 2025 (20 days raised to 21). When the triggering paper is served by mail, Minn. R. Civ. P. 6.01(e) adds 3 days for service by mail. A deadline landing on a weekend or court holiday moves to the next business day.
- Served by mail? Minn. R. Civ. P. 6.01(e) adds 3 days for service by mail. Select “Service by mail” above and the calculator applies it.
Questions
- How long do I have to respond to a complaint in Minnesota?
- Generally 21 days after service of the summons, under Minn. R. Civ. P. 12.01.