In law, an answer was originally a solemn assertion in opposition to someone or something, and thus generally any counter-statement or defense, a reply to a question or response, or objection, or a correct solution of a problem.

What does it mean to counter someone's statement?

: a statement opposing or denying another statement The crisis demanded a response from the church—a counterstatement affirming what the church always held to be true.—

What is a counter statement in law?

What is a Counter-Statement? A counter-statement is the reply to the notice of opposition, which must be filed by the applicant within two months of receipt of the notice of opposition by way of Form TM-O. ... Alternatively, if the applicant files the counter-statement, the opposition will proceed to the evidence stage.