§3858. Entry of action; who may defend; bond
The actions shall be entered on the docket as follows: The person claiming the lien, as plaintiff, the person alleged to be personally liable, as defendant, and the name or other description of the vessel attached. The owners or mortgagees of the vessel, or any plaintiff in an action wherein it is attached for a lien, may appear and defend any action so far as relates to the validity and amount of the lien claim; but no such plaintiff shall so defend until he gives bond, to the satisfaction of the court, to pay the costs awarded against him.