(a) On or before the return date specified in the order to show cause, the mailable matter and each respondent may file an answer or other defense.
(b) By order, the circuit court may permit any person to appear and file an answer as amicus curiae.
(c) If no person files an answer or other defense on or before the return date specified in the order to show cause, the circuit court may immediately determine whether the mailable matter is obscene and enter an appropriate judgment.
(d) Upon the expiration of the time for filing an answer or other defense by the mailable matter and all respondents, and, upon the circuit court's own motion or upon the application of any party, the circuit court may set a date for the trial of the issues joined.