What must a summons be accompanied by?

A summons must be accompanied by a complaint because the summons serves as a formal notification to the defendant that a legal action has been initiated against them. The complaint outlines the details of the case, including the reasons for the action and the legal claims being made. This pairing ensures that the defendant has all necessary information to respond appropriately to the allegations. When delivered together, the summons informs the defendant of their obligation to appear in court and the complaint provides the substantive basis for the case, which is essential for the legal process to move forward effectively.

In legal practice, it is critical that the complaint is included so that the defendant understands the context and content of the allegations being brought against them. This adherence to procedural requirements helps maintain the integrity of the judicial process and ensures that the defendant's due process rights are respected.