Caption
Identifies the court, title of action, and docket number so the counterclaim is properly attached to the existing case and accepted by the clerk.
Filing a verified counterclaim preserves affirmative claims against the plaintiff, puts those claims on the record, and can streamline resolution by combining disputes into one case.
Timely preparation ensures claims are preserved and meets procedural requirements for verification and service under court rules.
A defendant or corporate officer who has personal knowledge of the facts may sign and verify the counterclaim; the signer must be able to swear to the statements under penalty of perjury, or an authorized agent may verify if state rules permit.
An attorney of record ordinarily prepares and files the pleading; counsel signs the filing per court rules and may verify if permitted by jurisdictional practice, but verification more commonly requires the party's oath.
Identifies the court, title of action, and docket number so the counterclaim is properly attached to the existing case and accepted by the clerk.
Numbered factual allegations that explain events, dates, and parties with enough detail to permit the plaintiff to respond and to support the legal theories asserted.
Clear statement of causes of action (statutory or common law) with elements and how the facts satisfy each element.
Specific remedies sought, including monetary damages, injunctive relief, declaratory relief, or attorneys' fees when available.
A jurat or sworn statement by the verifying party attesting that the facts are true under penalty of perjury, formatted to satisfy local rules or statutes.
Signature, printed name, title (if corporate), date, and contact information for the signing party or counsel in compliance with filing and service rules.
| Field Mapping | Map caption, numbered paragraphs, and verification block to editable fields |
|---|---|
| Signer Authentication | Use email + SMS code or KBA where jurisdictionally required |
| Audit Trail | Capture timestamps, IP addresses, and signer actions |
| Template Saving | Save verified counterclaim as reusable template for similar matters |
| Export Format | Export PDF/A or court-acceptable PDF for e-filing |
Ensure the platform preserves the verification jurat, provides an immutable audit trail, and saves a court-ready PDF for filing and service.
Often 21 days after service in federal court (see FRCP); state rules vary
Assert counterclaims within the answering pleading deadline unless amended later with leave
Serve opposing parties promptly and retain proof of service
Verify court portal deadlines for same-day filing acceptance
Confirm applicable limitations to avoid forfeiture of claims
Prepare verified counterclaim with exhibits and verification language.
Obtain sworn signature or declaration from the verifying party.
Serve the plaintiff and file proof of service with the court.
Court accepts and enters the counterclaim on the docket.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial, no credit card | Verify with vendor | Verify with vendor | Verify with vendor | Verify with vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA available) | Yes | Yes | No | No |
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