Default vs. Default Judgment under Federal Rule 55 and 60

When you are sued as a Defendant in Federal Court, if the defendant does not respond the Plaintiff will enter a default, and then will file for default judgment. Attorney Steve litigation lawyer explains FRCP 55 and 60. FRCP is a two part deal where the Plaintiff files for the default when the Defendant fails to "plead or respond" within 20 days after being served the summons and complaint. When this happens, the court will enter the default, but then the Plaintiff usually will have to come back and file an application for "default judgement." The court may then set a hearing where the Plaintiff will have to prove their damages in a "prove up" hearing. This will be a much easier case for the Plaintiff since the opposing party will not be there to object, and the burden or production and persuasion may be reduced. This video explains the difference between the two legal concepts and explains this in plain language you can understand. There is also an explanation of how to seek to set aside the default or the default judgement. If you need a federal court lawyer for a business, real estate or intellectual property dispute (ex. copyright or software infringement) contact us at (877) 276-5084 to discuss your case. We hope you find this video helpful and feel free to share this on your social media networks. www.AskAttorneySteve.com