When it comes to the legal system, it’s essential to understand the difference between a summons and a warrant. Both are court orders, but they serve different purposes. In this article, we will explain the differences between the two and provide a step-by-step guide on what to do if you receive a summons or a warrant.
What is a summons?
A summons is a legal document that orders someone to appear in court. It is usually issued in civil cases, such as a divorce or a lawsuit, to notify the defendant that they are being sued. The summons will contain the name of the court, the parties involved in the case, and the date and time of the court hearing. The person receiving the summons is required to appear in court on the specified date.
What is a warrant?
A warrant is a court order that authorizes law enforcement to take a person into custody. It is issued in criminal cases when a person is suspected of committing a crime. The warrant will contain the person’s name, the offense they are suspected of committing, and instructions on how to execute the warrant. A warrant can be executed at any time, and the person named in the warrant can be arrested and taken into custody.
#Step-by-step guide on what to do if you receive a summons:
1. Read the summons carefully: When you receive a summons, make sure to read it carefully and understand what it is for. Note the date, time, and location of the court hearing.
2. Respond to the summons: You must respond to the summons by either appearing in court or filing a written response within the specified time frame. Failure to respond may result in a default judgment against you.
3. Seek legal advice: If you are unsure about the contents of the summons or what to do, seek legal advice from an attorney.
Step-by-step guide on what to do if you receive a warrant:
1. Stay calm: If you receive a warrant, try to stay calm and do not panic.
2. Contact an attorney: It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to understand your legal rights and what to do next.
3. Turn yourself in If you are named in a warrant, it’s best to turn yourself in to the authorities. This shows that you are willing to cooperate with the legal process.
4. Post bail: If you are arrested, you may have the option to post bail. Bail is a sum of money that is paid to the court to ensure that you will appear for your court hearing.
In summary, a summons is a legal document that orders someone to appear in court, while a warrant is a court order that authorizes law enforcement to take a person into custody. It’s important to respond to a summons and seek legal advice if needed, while if you receive a warrant, stay calm, contact an attorney, turn yourself in, and post bail if necessary.