What is the main purpose of a summons in civil process?

The main purpose of a summons in civil process is to initiate a legal action against a defendant. A summons is an official document that notifies a defendant that a lawsuit has been filed against them and informs them of the time frame within which they must respond or appear in court. This is a crucial step in the legal process, as it ensures that the defendant is aware of the claims being made and has the opportunity to defend themselves.

By serving a summons, the court establishes jurisdiction over the defendant and sets the stage for the legal proceedings to unfold. It is essential for upholding due process, as every party involved in a legal action must be given notice and an opportunity to be heard. This process helps to maintain fairness in the judicial system by allowing both parties to present their sides of the issue before a decision is made.

The other options, such as issuing a fine, providing evidence, or scheduling a criminal trial, do not accurately reflect the primary function of a summons in the context of civil proceedings. A summons specifically pertains to the initiation of civil lawsuits rather than punitive actions or criminal cases.