When a default is entered, the plaintiff must obtain a default judgment against the defendant within forty-five (45) days after the default was entered. California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110(h). A default judgment means the defendant loses the case and the plaintiff may enforce their award. For example, plaintiff files a lawsuit for breach of contract claiming damages of $10,000.00. If defendant fails to respond, the court will agree with the plaintiff and award them $10,000.00. The plaintiff may then enforce the judgment by levying bank accounts, garnishing wages, or placing liens on real property. Hence, it's important to timely respond to a lawsuit.
Pursuant to section 431.30(d) of the California Code of Civil Procedure, Defendants generally deny each and every allegation in each cause of action alleged against Defendants as set forth in the unverified complaint. Defendants further deny that Plaintiffs have sustained any damages whatsoever as a result of the actions complained of, and deny Plaintiffs are entitled to any relief sought by reason of any act, omission or conduct on the part of Defendants.