Reply

/rɪˈplaɪ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal response by a defendant to a plaintiff’s replication in legal pleading.
    The defendant filed a reply to address the new issues raised.
  2. (v.) To make a formal answer to a legal pleading or demand.
    The plaintiff replied to the defendant’s counterclaim within the deadline.

Forms

  • replies
  • replied
  • replying

Commentary

In legal drafting, a reply is typically limited to addressing new matters raised in an opponent’s pleading.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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