Respondent

General

The spouse who responds to a divorce petition filed by the other spouse.

Example

As the respondent, he had 30 days to file his answer to the divorce petition.

Canadian Equivalent

In Canada, this is referred to as Respondent / Responding Party.

Jurisdiction Variations

NEW-YORK

Defendant

New York uses 'defendant' when the action is initiated by 'complaint'

NEW-JERSEY

Defendant

New Jersey uses 'defendant' in response to a 'complaint for divorce'

CONNECTICUT

Defendant

Connecticut uses 'defendant'

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