What happens if a defendant does not respond to the complaint?

• A. The plaintiff may obtain a default judgment immediately
• B. The court will dismiss the case
• C. The defendant must file an answer
• D. The defendant is in default

Answer: (D)

Not responding to the complaint within the allowed time puts the defendant in default. That status means the defendant has failed to plead or defend the suit. It doesn't automatically dismiss the case or grant relief. Instead, the plaintiff may move for the court to enter a default, and once default is entered, pursue a default judgment on liability (and, if necessary, damages). The defendant can still seek relief by moving to set aside the default for good cause. The other options don’t fit because failure to respond isn’t automatic dismissal, and the defendant isn’t required to file an answer after already defaulting.