Each paper you file must have three inches of space at the top of the first page. The other margins (left, right, and bottom, as well as the top beginning with the second page) must be at least one inch wide. Ink should be black or dark blue. If your declarations do not comply with these regulations, the court clerk may refuse to submit them or punish you. The papers you need to file include: an original petition, answer, written objections to the petition, and a notice of hearing. Often, you will also have to file copies of documents that support your claim or defense. For example, if the plaintiff files suit over a credit card debt and you want to dispute the amount due, you would need to provide the court with a copy of the credit card statement showing the full balance owed at the time of filing. It is important to file your declaration in the proper form. If you declare under penalty of perjury that "x" is true and correct, but then it is discovered that you did not sign your declaration, there is no remedy except to file another declaration. Your first declaration is void because you failed to sign it. In addition, some courts require their own form for filing declarations. If you fail to file properly, the court may decide that you have waived your right to appear in court. This could result in a judgment being entered against you even though you are innocent. It is important to follow the rules for filing a declaration.