A counterclaim differs from an affirmative defense in that,a counterclaim:

A) is a new claim by the plaintiff.
B) does not permit a defendant to claim for damages caused by a fraud.
C) is merely an attack on the plaintiff's claims.
D) is the defendant's attempt to obtain legal relief.

Counterclaim

A legal claim brought against the plaintiff by the defendant, typically in response to the original lawsuit.

Affirmative Defense

A defense in which the defendant introduces evidence, which, if found to be credible, will negate criminal or civil liability, even if it is proven that the defendant committed the alleged acts.

Plaintiff

The party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint with the court.