§ 955.6 (Rule 6) Pleadings.

(a) Complaint. Within 45 days after receipt of the notice of docketing, the appellant must file a complaint. The complaint must set forth simple, concise, and direct statements describing the basis and dollar amount for each claim. This pleading must fulfill the generally recognized requirements of a complaint, although no particular form is required. At the appellant's request or on the Board's own initiative, the appellant's claim, notice of appeal, or another document may be deemed to constitute the complaint if, in the Board's opinion, the issues are sufficiently explained in one of those documents.

(b) Answer. Within 30 days from receipt of the complaint, or notice from the Board designating another document as the complaint, the respondent must file an answer. The answer must set forth simple, concise, and direct statements of the respondent's defenses to each claim asserted by the appellant. This pleading must fulfill the generally recognized requirements of an answer and must set forth any affirmative defenses or counterclaims. If the answer is not filed within the time required, the Board may enter a general denial on behalf of the respondent, and the appellant will be so notified.

(c) Affirmative claims by the respondent. Where the appellant has appealed an affirmative claim asserted by a contracting officer in a final decision, such as a termination for default or a monetary claim by the Postal Service, the Board may order the respondent to file the complaint and the appellant to file the answer.