Can I appeal an improper "default judgement"?

[illuminotme]

I recently received certified mail stating that I had been sued and that the judgement was ruled in favor of the plaintiff by default. I never received a complaint or summons! Because these original letters of service and summons were sent to an invalid address, the post office forwarded them to a business that I am not associated with. Somebody, other than who they were addressed to, signed for and took delivery of them. Had I received them, I would have responded to them, and shown up in court, if need be. Who do I need to contact in order to request an appeal of this judgement placed upon me? I would like a chance to defend myself, because I am not guilty of the infringement I was sued for.

This judgement occurred in Dallas County. I currently reside in Denton County, Texas.

Thanks for any advice anyone has to offer!

[This message has been edited by illuminotme (edited April 17, 2000).]

 

[I AM ALWAYS LIABLE]

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by illuminotme:
I recently received certified mail stating that I had been sued and that the judgement was ruled in favor of the plaintiff by default. I never received a complaint or summons! Because these original letters of service and summons were sent to an invalid address, the post office forwarded them to a business that I am not associated with. Somebody, other than who they were addressed to, signed for and took delivery of them. Had I received them, I would have responded to them, and shown up in court, if need be. Who do I need to contact in order to request an appeal of this judgement placed upon me? I would like a chance to defend myself, because I am not guilty of the infringement I was sued for.

Thanks for any advice anyone has to offer!<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

My response:

The methods we have in California depend upon the court - - e.g., the method for Small Claims is different from higher courts. You didn't mention what court rendered judgment. However, because of the procedural technicalities, this is something that should be reviewed by your attorney for immediate action.

IAAL

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[This message has been edited by I AM ALWAYS LIABLE (edited April 17, 2000).]