What is a summons?

A summons is a crucial legal document issued by a court to inform a defendant that a lawsuit has been filed against them. It serves two key purposes: first, it formally notifies the defendant that they are being sued, and second, it compels them to appear before the court to respond to the claims made in the lawsuit. By providing this notification, a summons ensures that the defendant has the opportunity to defend themselves and participate in the legal proceedings.

Additionally, the summons typically includes essential details such as the name of the court, the parties involved in the lawsuit, and instructions on how the defendant should respond, including any deadlines. This legal mechanism is important for upholding the principle of due process, which requires that individuals are informed of legal actions that may affect their rights and obligations.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of a summons. For example, a document initiating an appeal process relates to a different stage of litigation, while a request for settlement pertains to negotiations outside of court. A type of legal evidence used in trial involves materials that support or refute claims made during a hearing, which is distinct from the role of a summons in starting a lawsuit.