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See also Wager. A person defends against a claim by swearing that the claim is groundless. This must include compurgators who then swear on the defendant's credibility. In old practice. An oath taken by a defendant in an action of debt that he does not owe the claim, supported by the oaths of eleven neighbors.

When an action of debt is brought against a man upon a simple contract, and the defendant pleads nil débet, and concludes his plea with this plea, with this formula, 'And this he is ready to defend against him the said A. B. and his suit, as the ...