What initiates a civil summons in ordinary civil action?

A civil summons in an ordinary civil action is initiated by a complaint filed by the plaintiff. The process begins when the plaintiff, who claims to have been wronged or harmed by another party, prepares and files a legal document known as a complaint with the court. This document outlines the plaintiff's allegations, the legal basis for the complaint, and the relief sought. Once the complaint is filed, the court issues a summons, which serves as a formal notice to the defendant that a legal action has been initiated against them.

The other options do not serve as initiators of the civil summons. A notice from the judge is typically concerned with procedural matters after a case has been filed but does not initiate a case. A request from the defendant is irrelevant at this stage, as they respond to the plaintiff's complaint rather than initiating the process. A motion for summary judgment occurs later in the civil proceedings, aiming to resolve the case without a trial based on evidence presented, and is not the initial step in starting a civil action. Thus, the role of the plaintiff's complaint is critical, as it formally commences the legal process, making it the correct answer.