Rule 83.Answer; Original and Supplemental; Indorsement
Last verified June 28, 2026
Full Text of Rule 83
Plain-English Summary
Rule 83 is the defendant's mirror of Rule 78. The defendant's answer consists of an original answer and whatever supplemental answers the case requires. Each is indorsed to show its position — “original answer,” “defendant's first supplemental answer,” and so on — successively numbered, named, and indorsed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes up a defendant's pleadings in Texas?
Under Rule 83, an original answer and any necessary supplemental answers, each indorsed and successively numbered and named.
How is a Texas supplemental answer labeled in the pleadings?
Rule 83 has each one indorsed to show its place in order — as the defendant's first supplemental answer, second supplemental answer, and so on — successively numbered, named, and indorsed.
Can a Texas defendant file more than one supplemental answer?
Yes. Rule 83 allows as many supplemental answers as the course of pleading between the parties requires, each one added to the original answer.