California · Penal Code
PEN §1024: If the defendant refuses to answer the accusatory pleading, by demurrer or plea, a plea of not guilty must be entered.
Civil
What this law says, in plain English
When a defendant fails to respond to criminal charges by demurrer or plea, the court automatically enters a not guilty plea on their behalf.
Read the full statutory text
If the defendant refuses to answer the accusatory pleading, by demurrer or plea, a plea of not guilty must be entered.
Verify at the official source: California legislative text
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