What must a defendant receive to be properly served in a civil case?

To properly serve a defendant in a civil case, it is essential that they receive a summons along with a copy of the complaint. The summons serves as a formal notification that a lawsuit has been filed against them and outlines their legal obligations, such as the time frame in which they must respond. The complaint contains the specific details of the allegations and the basis for the lawsuit. Together, these documents ensure that the defendant is adequately informed about the proceedings and the claims against them, which is a fundamental principle of due process. This combination is crucial for maintaining fairness in the legal system, allowing the defendant to prepare a defense. Other methods of notification, such as email or personal letters, do not fulfill the legal requirements for service in a civil case.