landlord tenant
soon after making complaints to local, state and federal depts. on the condition of the place i was living was the landlord began to retaliate for filing notice to quit, shutting off power, breaking and entering (which criminal report was made) and taking possesions just to name a few. we were recently in court and the judge asked if i would like to file a counterclaim against him as some serious laws have been broke, i said i would. the judge said i have 21 days to file the responsive pleadings with the courts. what exactly do they need for me to file the countersuit (responsive pleadings)? is there a special court form i need to fill out or do i just need to respond in writing with a desription of the events and the amount i would like to be rewarded? also, the landlord had from day 1 requested a jury trial for this matter and the judge said that discoveries are to be completed by 4/23/09. what exactly is that? if i can get some answers it would be much appreciated as i have tried to contact local legal aid and have not gotten any response back and only have 9 days left to file this counter, and just do not have the extra money to hire an attorney at this point. thanks