What is a summons?

A summons is a legal document that serves the purpose of notifying a defendant that legal action has been initiated against them and that they are required to appear in court. This document outlines the necessary details regarding the court date, the specific matters to be addressed, and the consequences of failing to respond or appear. By issuing a summons, the court ensures that defendants are made aware of their legal obligations and can prepare their defenses accordingly, promoting fairness in the judicial process.

In contrast, appealing a case refers to a different legal procedure where a party requests a review of a lower court's decision by a higher court, which does not fit the definition of a summons. A formal request for evidence pertains to the discovery phase of a case, typically related to gathering information rather than notifying a defendant. While a judge's directive on a ruling speaks to the outcomes of a case or procedural matters, it does not encapsulate the purpose or function of a summons in the legal system.