Counterclaim

Generally, states require a right to file a counterclaim at the time of your filing an answer. Meaning, you don't have to ask for court permission. Similar to amending an answer, there is a window when court permission is not needed. So, you file a counterclaim with your answer. It is also a "shock and awe" approach that could settle a case. Beyond your state's time limit to file a counterclaim or any other initial pleading or amendment, you have to ask permission. The reality that I have noticed is that if you file it after the answer within a week or so, no one says anything because a the beginning of the case, everything is new and there is no pre-trial or discovery and no one can argue prejudice at an early point in the litigation. So, check your rules and do things early. Good luck. I will think about a video. Its a small topic so I will have to throw in other stuff. Thank you for asking.