What does a civil summons tell the defendant they must do?

A civil summons is an official document that notifies a defendant that a legal action has been initiated against them. It serves to inform the defendant of their responsibilities in the proceedings, specifically requiring them to respond to the lawsuit. The correct course of action for the defendant upon receiving a civil summons is to either file a written answer to the complaint or to appear in court within a specified time frame, typically 30 days. This response is crucial as it allows the defendant to present their side of the case and contest the claims made against them.

By fulfilling this requirement, the defendant ensures their right to defend themselves and prevents the possibility of a default judgment, which can be rendered against them if they fail to respond within the designated time. The options regarding filing an appeal, attending a preliminary hearing, or submitting a settlement offer do not accurately represent the immediate obligations outlined in a civil summons, thereby reinforcing the importance of the requirement to file a written answer or appear in court as the correct answer.