ALABAMA SMALL CLAIMS RULES

Rule F.

Deadline for answer.

The defendant shall file his answer in the office of the clerk within 14 days after a copy of the summons and complaint has been delivered to him by the sheriff, constable or person appointed to make service or, if service has been made by certified mail, within 14 days after he signs the return receipt. The defendant does not have to serve a copy of his answer on the plaintiff unless his answer contains a counterclaim.