An alias summons is a legal term referring to the process of alternative or substitute service of process in a lawsuit or legal proceeding. This method is employed when the defendant or party being summoned cannot be personally served with legal documents in the usual manner. An alias summons serves as a replacement for the original summons that may have been unsuccessful. It allows the court to notify the defendant of their involvement in the legal case or their required appearance in court. This type of summons is often used when the defendant is deliberately evading service or their whereabouts are unknown. There are two main types of alias summons: 1. Alias Summons by Personal Service: In this type, a person authorized by the court, such as a process server or sheriff, attempts to personally deliver the legal documents to the defendant. If the initial attempts fail, the court may issue an alias summons, which gives another opportunity for personal service. 2. Alias Summons by Publication: This type of alias summons is used when the defendant's location is unknown or their identity cannot be easily determined. In such cases, a notice is published in a newspaper or other designated publication, providing information about the lawsuit and summoning the defendant to respond or appear in court within a specified time frame. Alias summons plays a crucial role in ensuring due process by giving the defendant an opportunity to be heard and defend themselves in court. It is an essential part of the legal system, ensuring that all parties involved in a lawsuit have a fair chance to present their case and receive a just resolution. In summary, an alias summons is an alternative notification method used when serving legal documents to a defendant proves challenging. Whether through personal service or publication, it serves as a means to notify the defendant of their involvement in a legal case and their required appearance in court.