Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Virginia

Corporation Required to Reatin Lawyer to Defend Suit?

My business was recently sued in Virginia Circuit Court. Can I represent the company in action or do I need to retain a lawyer?


Asked on 2/18/05, 5:09 pm

5 Answers from Attorneys

Jonathon Moseley Jonathon A. Moseley

Re: Corporation Required to Reatin Lawyer to Defend Suit?

However, if a corporation is being sued in General District Court, the relevant date is the date shown on the Warrant in Debt. Make sure are there. The Court will allow you to show up and say you dispute the claim and set the case for trial, without a lawyer. But that is the last thing you will be allowed to do without a lawyer. After that, if a corporation does anything further or shows up at the next court hearing without a lawyer, you will lose by default.

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Answered on 2/20/05, 9:45 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Corporation Required to Reatin Lawyer to Defend Suit?

Yes, a corporation must be represented in court by a licensed Virginia attorney. Remember that your corporation's insurance carrier is required to defend claims which are within the insurance policy, and in many cases where coverage is possible, disputed or questionable. Do not miss the deadline for responding to the lawsuit.

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Answered on 2/18/05, 5:34 pm
Paul B. Ward Law Offices of Paul B. Ward

Re: Corporation Required to Reatin Lawyer to Defend Suit?

In court corporation must be represented by a lawyer licensed to practice in Virginia.

And the corporation has only 21 days to respond to the original suit papers.

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Answered on 2/18/05, 5:51 pm
Bradley Hansen Hughes & Associates, PLLC

Re: Corporation Required to Reatin Lawyer to Defend Suit?

Virginia corporations must be represented by counsel...

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Answered on 2/18/05, 6:12 pm
Daniel Press Chung & Press, P.C.

Re: Corporation Required to Reatin Lawyer to Defend Suit?

You do need a lawyer. I'm sure you are receiving countless offers, but I'd be glad to discuss the matter with you.

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Answered on 2/18/05, 6:48 pm


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