What type of documents must be filed if Sam and Tom wish to contest Plaintiff's claim?

In a civil procedure context, Sam and Tom would need to file an answer and a reconventional demand to contest the Plaintiff's claim effectively.

An answer is a legal document that the defendants file in response to the plaintiff's complaint, where they admit or deny the allegations made against them. In this case, it is essential because it lays the groundwork for their defense and provides the plaintiff with knowledge of how the defendants intend to respond to the claims being made.

A reconventional demand, often referred to as a counterclaim in other jurisdictions, allows the defendants to assert their own claims against the plaintiff in the same proceeding. This is particularly important as it enables Sam and Tom not only to contest the original claims but also to potentially seek relief from the plaintiff as part of the same lawsuit.

This combination of an answer and a reconventional demand is a strategic way to address the plaintiff’s claims while also presenting their own claims for any grievances related to the matter at hand. By filing these documents, they effectively participate in the suit and assert their rights within the same proceedings, which is efficient in terms of judicial resources and timelines.