I am being sued, I need to file a response at the courthouse because I
was served. I have now 17 days left to file a written response. This
is in Florida. I have concluded all of the business I am being sued
for. In other words, everything they have filed for is taken care of,
there is now nothing to sue me over. I do have a great defense, if it
comes to that. I don't want to go to court. Please advise-

Should I get a lawyer?
How should I word the response if I file the response myself?
If I file my own response, could that be used against me?
Can the plaintiff drop the suit at this point since I took care of
everything, (before I file a response)or must they press on?

You have to respond or judgment will (almost certainly) be filed against you.

Lawyers are expensive but time is short and I would advise that you
get one double quick.

local bar associations often have referals to local lawyers. most
often the initial meeting is at a very reduced rate or free. look in
your local phone book / online under bar association