People constantly ask:

“What do I actually say in court?”

Here’s practical guidance.

At the First Court Date (Often a Pretrial or Status Conference)

If the judge asks:

“Are you the defendant?”

You respond:

“Yes, Your Honor.”

If asked whether you admit the debt:

You can say:

“Your Honor, I deny the allegations and request that the plaintiff prove its case.”

That’s it.

You are not required to argue the entire case on day one.

If Asked About Settlement

You can say:

“I’m open to discussing settlement, but I dispute the amount and ownership of the debt.”

Never admit the balance casually.

If the Plaintiff Has No Documents

You may say:

“Your Honor, I object to any attempt to introduce documents without proper foundation and proof of assignment.”

Keep it simple.

You are forcing them to meet their burden.