LJEA00004F – Answer (Eviction Action) – Arizona

Description of the “Answer (Eviction Action)” – Arizona

The “LJEA00004F – Answer (Eviction Action)” form is a legal document used in the state of Arizona for defendants to respond to an eviction complaint filed by a plaintiff. This form is utilized within the Arizona Justice Courts and includes several sections for the defendant to address the claims made by the plaintiff.  The form is identified by its document code (LJEA00004F-082719) and is structured to ensure all relevant information and legal arguments are clearly presented to the court.

Filling out the “Answer (Eviction Action)” form accurately is essential to ensure your response is properly recorded in court. Follow these steps to complete the form:

For Clerk’s Use Only

• This section is reserved for the court clerks. Leave it blank.

Attorney Information

• If you are represented by an attorney, have them fill in their name, address, phone number, email, fax, and bar number. If you do not have an attorney, you can leave this section blank.

Case Number

• Enter the case number provided on the eviction complaint you received from the plaintiff.

Plaintiff and Defendant Information:

• Plaintiff(s): Write the name(s), address, and phone number of the plaintiff(s) as listed in the eviction complaint.
• Defendant(s): Write your name(s), address, and phone number.

Defendant’s Answer to the Plaintiff’s Complaint

• Admission
  • If you agree with any parts of the plaintiff’s complaint, check the box and specify the parts you admit to.
• Request for Dismissal
  • If you believe the court should dismiss the plaintiff’s complaint, check any applicable boxes and provide reasons:
    • Lack of jurisdiction: State why the court does not have the authority to hear the case.
    • Improper party: Explain why the plaintiff is not the proper party to file the complaint against you.
    • Mistaken identity: Indicate that you are not the correct person the complaint should be made against.
    • Lack of proper notice: Specify if you did not receive the required legal notice.
  • Other Defenses
    • Use this section to list any other defenses you have against the eviction complaint.
  • Denial
    • If you deny any of the plaintiff’s claims, check the appropriate boxes and provide details:
      • Non-payment of rent: Indicate that you have paid the rent as agreed and provide details of the payment (to whom it was made, the amount, and the date).
      • Non-compliance: Deny any claims of material non-compliance with the rental agreement.
      • Property damage: Deny any allegations of causing damage to the property.
    • Unpaid Rent Justification
      • If rent has not been paid due to the plaintiff’s violations of the rental agreement or the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, check this box. Attach a copy of the written notice you gave to the plaintiff, and describe the violations.

Request for Court Ruling

1. • Indicate that you are asking the court to rule in your favor and for reimbursement of your court costs. Sign and date this section under penalty of perjury.

Certification of Service

1. • Certify that you will mail or deliver a copy of this answer to the plaintiff or the plaintiff’s attorney. Sign and date this section.

Justice of the Peace and Date

1. • Leave this section blank. It is for the Justice of the Peace presiding over the case.

Additional Tips

• Review Carefully: Double-check all the information to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Make Copies: Keep copies of the completed form for your records and for service to the plaintiff or their attorney.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you have any doubts or need assistance, consult with an attorney.

By following these steps, you can accurately fill out the “Answer (Eviction Action)” form and ensure your response is properly documented in the court proceedings.