Colorado Summons Form – Fill Out and Use This PDF

Colorado Summons Form – PDF Details and Legal Overview

The Colorado Summons Form (JDF 600) is used in Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer proceedings under Colorado Revised Statutes §13-40-111. It functions as the official court notice that a landlord or plaintiff files alongside a complaint, informing the defendant of the court hearing date and their obligation to appear or file a written answer by the date shown on the form.

Who Uses This Form and When
Plaintiffs, most commonly landlords or property owners, use this form to begin eviction or property-dispute proceedings in Colorado county court. Defendants are the tenants or occupants named in the complaint. Once served with the Colorado Summons, the defendant must act within the time shown on the form or risk losing the right to contest the case.

Defendant Requirements After Receiving the Summons
After being served, the defendant must either appear in court on the listed date or file a written answer with the county court clerk before that date. The answer must state clearly whether the defendant agrees or disagrees with the complaint. Defendants who want a jury trial must request one in their written answer and pay the jury fee. The fee is non-refundable under Colorado law. Defendants who cannot afford court costs may apply for a fee waiver by claiming indigency.

Consequences of Not Responding
If the defendant does not file an answer or appear in court by the specified date, the judge may enter a default judgment for the plaintiff. In a Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer case, this can result in an order to vacate the property and pay court costs. Responding by the deadline is critical for protecting the defendant’s rights in the proceeding.