113 Wis. 461 | Wis. | 1902
A counterclaim must be “pleaded as such and he so denominated.” Sec. 2656, Stats. 1898. The technically correct way to plead a counterclaim under this statute is to commence that part of the answer which is supposed to set forth a counterclaim with the distinct statement that the allegations following are pleaded as a counterclaim. The form frequently used and which seems unobjectionable is, “The defendant, by way of counterclaim, herein alleges.” But, while this is doubtless the better way, it cannot be said to be the only way. The only requirement of the statute is that it be pleaded as such, and be so denominated. If by that liberál construction which must be given to a pleading (sec. 2668, Stats. 1898) it appears that any definite part of the answer is pleaded as a counterclaim, and is so denominated in the answer itself, then that part of the answer must be considered as fulfilling the requirement of the statute as to form of pleading, regardless of the fact whether it be denominated a counterclaim at the beginning or at the end. All who have had experience in trial courts know that counterclaims are fre
Giving the answer this construction, the question presented is whether the facts referred to constitute a counterclaim. The action being one in tort, the counterclaim must be a cause of action arising out of the transaction set forth in the complaint as the foundation of the plaintiff’s claim, or connected with the subject of the action. Stats. 1898, sec. 2656.
By the Court. — Order affirmed.