Comes And Defends

[L. Lat. venit et defendit.] A phrase of great antiquity in pleading, and hitherto always used at the commencement of a defendant's pleas and demurrers to the declaration; the word "comes" very appropriately and significantly expressing his appearance, and "defends" his defence. "And the said defendant comes and defends the wrong and injury, when &c., and says that," &c.

Steph. Pl. 62, 67, 71. (Am. ed. 1824.) 1 Burr. Pr. 163.

In the recent revision of the forms of pleadings in England, this clause has been omitted.