What is a summons?

A summons is a legal document that serves as a notice to an individual, informing them that they are required to appear in court. It is typically issued by a court and delivered to the individual involved in a legal proceeding. The purpose of a summons is to ensure that the parties involved are aware of the legal action against them and have the opportunity to respond or defend themselves.

In a broader legal context, the summons provides critical information, such as the date, time, and location of the court proceedings. It is an essential step in the legal process, as it formally initiates the proceedings against a defendant and establishes the court's jurisdiction over them.

The other options do not accurately describe a summons. A class-action lawsuit is initiated by a different type of document known as a complaint, not a summons. Discovery involves requests for evidence, but this process is separate from the summons. Similarly, a final order issued by the court pertains to the conclusion of a legal case and does not relate to the initial notification of a court appearance.