A sample answer and counterclaims that a defendant may use to respond to a petition and assert its own claims against the plaintiff in a Texas district or county court civil lawsuit. This Standard Document contains integrated drafting notes with important explanations and tips for drafting an answer and counterclaims, including how to format the answer and counterclaims, assert a special appearance, motion to transfer venue, and special pleas. It also explains how to respond to allegations in the plaintiff's petition with a general denial, special and verified denials, and affirmative defenses.