After proper service, what is the deadline to answer in federal court?

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Multiple Choice

After proper service, what is the deadline to answer in federal court?

Explanation:
When a defendant is properly served with a summons and complaint, the defendant must file an answer within 21 days. This 21-day period is the default under Rule 12(a)(1). There are exceptions that lengthen the time: if the United States (or an agency/official sued in an official capacity) is the defendant, the deadline is 60 days; and if service was waived under Rule 4(d), the response time is also extended (typically to 60 days). So the baseline rule after proper service is 21 days.

When a defendant is properly served with a summons and complaint, the defendant must file an answer within 21 days. This 21-day period is the default under Rule 12(a)(1). There are exceptions that lengthen the time: if the United States (or an agency/official sued in an official capacity) is the defendant, the deadline is 60 days; and if service was waived under Rule 4(d), the response time is also extended (typically to 60 days). So the baseline rule after proper service is 21 days.

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