N9D Defence and Counterclaim Unspecified amount and non-money claims

In cases where the Defendant does not accept the case put forward by the Claimant and wishes to defend the claim, the will need to file a statement of defence with the court, providing details of the grounds on which he disputes the claim and arguing why he believes that the court should not give the Claimant judgment.

The Defendant must submit a statement of defence within 14 days of the service of the claim form (or particulars of claim if these are not included on the claim form) although where he has already filed an acknowledgement of service this deadline increases to 28 days.

It is open to the Defendant to defend the whole of the claim or just a part of it. For example, in cases where two separate breaches of contract are alleged, the Defendant may choose ot admit one but to defend the other.

This form is designed to allow the Defendant to state his defence in claims for an amount of money to be decided by the court, or in non money claims (for example, possession or delivery of goods claims) The Defendant can also use this form to lodge a counter-claim against the Claimant.