---
kind: "section"
citation: "31 C.F.R. § 8.55"
title: "31"
number: "8.55"
heading: "Contents of complaint."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/31/8.55"
---

# §8.55. Contents of complaint.

- (a) **Charges.** A complaint will give a plain and concise description of the allegations which constitute the basis for the proceeding. A complaint will be deemed sufficient if it fairly informs the respondent of the charges to that he or she is able to prepare a defense.
- (b) **Demand for answer.** The complaint will give notification of the place and time prescribed for the filing of an answer by the respondent; that time will be not less than 15 days from the date of service of the complaint. Notice will be given that a decision by default may be rendered against the respondent if the complaint is not answered as required.

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: Sec. 3, 23 Stat. 258 (31 U.S.C. 1026); 5 U.S.C. 301, 500, 551-559; and Reorganization Plan No. 26 of 1950, 15 FR 4935, 64 Stat. 1280, as amended.

### Source

Source: 42 FR 33026, June 29, 1977, unless otherwise noted.