Pennsylvania Summons in a Civil Action, Proof of Service is a legal document used in Pennsylvania civil cases. This document is used to serve notice to the defendant that they are being sued. The Summons informs the defendant of their legal rights, the court and the details of the action being taken against them. The Proof of Service is proof that the Summons was served to the defendant and that they were made aware of the lawsuit. There are two types of Pennsylvania Summons in a Civil Action, Proof of Service: personal service and substituted service. Personal service requires that the Summons and Proof of Service be personally served to the defendant. Substituted service requires that the Summons and Proof of Service be sent to the defendant via certified mail, or sent to a representative or an adult member of the defendant’s household.