text: if being sued, what guidelines have to be followed in order for it to be ligitamate? i was defending myself in a fight and the girl who came at me first is trying to sue me...what has to be done before she can even have any form of "lawyer" contact me? first, the girl's lawyer will serve you with a copy of the summons and complaint.  the complaint will spell out exactly what you are accused of doing, and the relief being sought (most likely money).  the summons will explain who you need to  send a response to the complaint to (the girl's lawyer), and will tell you how many days (usually 20-30), you have to respond to the complaint.  if you fail to respond, the court can find you in default, and rule in the favor of the other girl without you being there.  if you're about to be sued, your best bet is to find an attorney of your own fast.  then, if the girl's attorney calls you, you just give the name and number of yours, and let them handle it from there.