Speak to an attorney for legal advice. This website, and this page, does not provide legal advice. The information on this page is current as of April 12th, 2025. Spalding Law Firm PLLC helps people file for bankruptcy and is a debt relief agency. Please see the Spokane County District Court’s website for a full list of procedures, requirements and instructions for responding to lawsuits. Do not rely on this website for advice or instructions. There may be requirements not listed here.

One of the most important things you can do when you get sued by a creditor is respond to the lawsuit within 20 days of being served and Always appear at trials—these are usually Bench Trials, which means the judge will decide the verdict.

There’s several reasons for taking a creditor lawsuit seriously, but the primary reason is that it avoids a default judgment. Responding to a lawsuit in Spokane County District Court (Civil and Small Claims) is fairly easy. Answering a complaint involves filing an Answer Form with the Court Clerk. Per the court’s website, for more information on this you can email DCCIVIL@SPOKANECOUNTY.ORG or contact the Civil/Small Claims Department at (509) 477-4770 option 8.

Consequences of not responding to a lawsuit: If you receive a default (or ordinary) judgment, your wages can be garnished, a judicial lien can be placed against your real property, your assets can be seized and more.

Civil Trials (i.e. Bench Trials) for Small Claims at held at Courtroom 203 - Broadway Center Building, City of Spokane Valley Precinct, 12710 E Sprague Ave.

For a full list of forms specific to Spokane County District Court: visit Civil & Small Claims Forms. Spokane County District Court Local Rules. Washington State courts local rules.

If you find that you’re to financially cope with debt, garnishments, or the other legal consequences of being successfully sued, you can request a free Bankruptcy Consultation with a Spokane Bankruptcy Attorney.