⌦ Return Date: The date that the Defendant must file his/her answer by and/or appear in Court, which is listed on the Summons. ⌦ May: In legal terms, “may” is defined as “optional” or “can.” ⌦ Shall: In legal terms, “shall” is defined as “required.” If you do not understand this information, please contact an attorney.
If a request for admission is served with the summons, the summons shall so state. (c) Summons – Return. – Personal service or substituted personal service of summons as prescribed by Rules 4(j) and (j1) must be made within 60 days after the date of the issuance of summons.
The term Return date means the day named in a writ or other form of legal process as the date when the response to that paper must be made. Return date, in case of divorce cases is the date on which the stipulated waiting period for a divorce begins. It is also the date by which the defendant should file an appearance.
If the summons is not served within the time allowed upon every party named in the summons, it shall be returned immediately upon the expiration of such time by the officer to the clerk of the court who issued it with notation thereon of its nonservice and the reasons therefor as to every such party not served, but ...
The Service of Process Agent accepts service of process of legal documents (summons and complaints; notices and demands, etc.) on behalf of a business entity which is or has been registered in the business records of the NC Department of the Secretary of State.
(The “return date” of a summons is the date to respond or face default.) Different courts have different forms and different time limits. And note that by having the summons issued, a party suddenly can invoke the full power of the civil courts to obtain relief.
This is the date on which you must appear in court and answer the complaint. A default judgment may be entered against you, if you do not show in court on the date. The return date is typically set within 30 days of the date of service. You will receive notice of the return date when you are served with the lawsuit.
After service to the defendants, the original summons, along with the "return of service" proving the summons and complaint were served, is filed with the court to show that each defendant was served. A summons differs from a subpena, which is an order to a witness to appear.