Which of the following best describes the role of a dispossessory summons?

A dispossessory summons is a legal document that serves to initiate the formal eviction process against a tenant or occupant of a property. This summons is typically issued when a landlord seeks to regain possession of their property due to reasons such as non-payment of rent, expiration of lease, or violation of lease terms. By serving a dispossessory summons, the landlord notifies the tenant of the legal action being taken and provides them with an opportunity to respond in court. This document is a crucial step in the legal procedure for dispossession, ensuring that the eviction is carried out in compliance with local laws and regulations.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of a dispossessory summons. For instance, it is not merely a request for payment of a debt, nor does it serve to provide witness testimony or cancel a lease. Each of those actions pertains to different legal processes and does not capture the essence of initiating eviction.