What does a "summons" signify in legal terms?

A "summons" is a legal document that serves as a command to an individual to appear in court. It is issued by the court and typically notifies the recipient of the date and time they are required to attend a legal proceeding. The purpose of the summons is to ensure that the person is aware of the legal action being taken against them and to provide them the opportunity to respond or defend themselves in court.

The significance of a summons lies in its role in upholding due process, ensuring that individuals are adequately informed of legal proceedings that may affect their rights or obligations. This formal notification helps to maintain the integrity of the judicial process by requiring the presence of individuals involved in legal disputes.