The respondent is the person who is being sued and who is legally responsible for showing up in court to answer the complaint.
The respondent is allowed to bring a counterclaim when they feel it is appropriate, and then both allegations will be heard by the court.
The respondent can be forced to answer any questions that are asked of them within the court case, and will be legally obligated to produce any evidence that is requested as well.
If a ruling is made against the respondent, then they will be required to pay the restitution ordered. If no order is made against them and the case was vexatious in nature, the respondent may in turn sue the complainent for punitive damages in relation to the false claims.