By: Joel Stephen Mattson
Most people see government forms, court filings, and citations as threats. But once you understand how the system works, you realize that their paperwork is actually your weapon.
Everything they file becomes part of the legal record—and that means you can challenge, dissect, and dismantle it on their own terms.
Every Document They File Is a Claim
When a court, officer, or agency files paperwork against you, they’re making a legal claim. That includes:
- Citations
- Complaints
- Warrants
- Charging instruments
- Notices of hearing
But here’s the kicker: every claim requires proof.
And most of the time, they never provide it.
How to Flip the Burden of Proof
Instead of arguing with their paperwork, use it to your advantage. File a written response that:
- Demands proof of jurisdiction
- Challenges standing
- Declares lack of consent
- Requests certified copies of any contract, agreement, or lawful delegation of authority
Now the burden shifts.
They must prove their paperwork has legal weight. And when they can’t—you win.
What to Look for in Their Filings
Here’s how to spot weak points:
- Is there a sworn affidavit attached? If not, the claim is hearsay.
- Is it signed by a living party with firsthand knowledge? Most aren’t.
- Is the court identified as Article I or III? If not, jurisdiction is presumed.
- Does the plaintiff have standing? Ask if they were harmed.
- Is the defendant listed in ALL CAPS? That’s a legal fiction, not you.
Your Written Response Strategy
Use documents like:
- Affidavit of Truth
- Notice of Non-Consent
- Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction
- Demand for Verified Complaint
- Judicial Notice
These tools don’t just deny their claim—they force the court to pause and reassess its legal position.
Example: The Charging Instrument
A charging instrument (citation, complaint, or information) must:
- Be signed under penalty of perjury
- Be filed by a party with firsthand knowledge
- Identify jurisdiction
If any of these are missing, you can move to dismiss or demand a verified complaint. If they fail to respond, the case collapses.
Never Ignore Their Paperwork—Dominate It
Even junk paper can be turned into leverage. Respond with precision:
- Highlight contradictions
- Demand validation
- Force them to meet legal standards
Use their own filings to trap them in the rules they pretend to uphold.
Final Word: Every Paper Is an Opportunity
Don’t be afraid of what they send. Flip it. Challenge it. Use it.
Because the truth is: they’re only winning because you don’t fight back on paper.
Make the record yours.
And let their own filings take them down.
Next Article in the Series: The Truth About Case Numbers and Legal Fictions
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