Summons

Also known as: Court Notice

In one sentence

A court order requiring someone to appear in court or respond to a lawsuit.

Plain English

A summons is an official notice from the court telling you that you must appear in court on a specific date or respond to legal charges against you. It's a formal command—ignoring a summons can result in additional legal trouble. In criminal cases, a summons might be issued instead of an arrest warrant, allowing someone to appear voluntarily rather than being taken into custody.

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Example

A person is accused of a minor crime. Instead of being arrested, she receives a summons in the mail ordering her to appear in court on March 15th. She must show up or face additional charges for failing to appear.

Used in a sentence

“The defendant received a summons requiring him to appear in traffic court to answer the speeding ticket.”

Related terms

Felony

A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.

adjudication hearing

A court proceeding where a judge hears evidence and makes a formal decision about a legal matter.

Bench Trial

A trial where a judge, not a jury, decides guilt or innocence.

Plea Bargain

A negotiated agreement where a defendant pleads guilty in exchange for reduced charges or sentencing.

false arrest

An unlawful arrest made without proper legal authority, probable cause, or a valid warrant.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.