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A counterclaim serves the purpose of responding to a plaintiff's allegations by allowing the defendant to assert their own claims against the plaintiff. This legal tool enables the defendant to present their side of the story and seek relief for any grievances they may have that are related to the original claim. By including a counterclaim, the defendant effectively transforms the singular lawsuit into a more comprehensive legal matter, where both parties' issues can be addressed simultaneously. This can enhance judicial efficiency and reduces the need for separate legal actions.

In contrast, dismissing the original lawsuit pertains to entirely different legal motions, such as a motion to dismiss, which does not employ counterclaims. Requesting a new trial or appealing to a higher court are also distinct processes related to the outcomes of a trial or legal decision rather than defending against allegations through a counterclaim. Thus, the correct answer highlights a fundamental aspect of civil litigation, emphasizing the responsiveness inherent in the legal process.