Default Judgment

A default judgment is issued by a court in civil disputes when the defendant fails to respond to a complaint. The court must have jurisdiction, and the defendant must be properly served. If the defendant does not respond within the specified time, the court awards judgment to the plaintiff by default, without a trial or jury decision. This process is part of civil litigation in the U.S.

What happens if a defendant fails to respond to a complaint?

Explain the process and implications of a default judgment in civil litigation.