Which form is typically filed to respond to a complaint?

The appropriate form that is typically filed to respond to a complaint is an answer. An answer is a formal written response by the defendant addressing the allegations made in the plaintiff's complaint. It serves to admit, deny, or state that the defendant lacks sufficient knowledge to respond to each allegation mentioned in the complaint. Filing an answer is crucial because it helps to establish the issues that will be addressed in the case and allows for the defendant to present any defenses or counterclaims.

In contrast, a motion is a request made to the court for a specific ruling or order during the course of litigation, which does not serve the same purpose as an answer. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation and might be used to support motions or certain evidence, but it does not provide the necessary response to a complaint. Finally, a summons is a document issued by the court that notifies the defendant of the legal action and requires them to respond, but it is not used to provide the substantive response to the allegations in the complaint itself. Each of these documents has distinct purposes in the legal process, making the answer the correct choice for responding specifically to a complaint.