What is the purpose of a "summons"?

The purpose of a "summons" is to command a defendant to appear in court. A summons is a legal document issued by a court or a government agency that notifies an individual that they are required to respond to a legal action or appear in court for a specific case. This can involve various types of legal matters, including civil lawsuits or criminal charges, and serves to inform the individual of their responsibilities under the law.

A summons ensures that individuals are provided with an official notice about the proceedings and gives them the opportunity to prepare and present their case. It is distinct from other legal documents, such as a citation or a charging document, which serve different purposes within the legal system.