What is a summons?

A summons is a legal document that notifies an individual of a lawsuit, requiring them to appear in court or respond to the legal action. This document serves as an official notice that a legal proceeding has been initiated against the person named in the summons. It typically outlines the nature of the case and provides essential details, such as the time and place of the court proceedings, thereby ensuring that the individual is informed about the situation and has an opportunity to respond or present their case.

This concept is crucial in the legal system because it upholds the principle of due process, giving individuals the right to be properly informed and to defend themselves against claims or allegations put forth in court. In contrast, the other options describe different legal instruments or documents that fulfill specific functions within the judicial process, but do not accurately represent what a summons is. A summons does not involve convicting a crime, does not act as an arrest warrant, and is distinct from a probation terms agreement, focusing solely on notifying individuals of legal actions involving them.