[header] How to defend yourself in a product liability lawsuit [title] Determine whether you were served properly. [step] If the plaintiff didn't follow legal procedures to have the complaint delivered, you can have it dismissed for improper service. [substeps] Courts have a particular procedure by which the plaintiff must deliver to you a copy of the complaint and summons so you have official notice that you are being sued. 
Generally, the papers must be delivered to you by a person over the age of 18 who is not a party to the lawsuit. The papers also must be delivered either to you in person or to someone who has authority to accept the lawsuit.