A Vermont Summons in an Adversary Proceeding is a legal document issued by a court, which orders a person to appear in court for a hearing or trial in a civil or criminal case. It is typically served on a defendant or witness by a process server or law enforcement officer. The Summons will specify the date and time of appearance, the nature of the proceedings, and the consequences of failing to appear. There are two types of Summons in an Adversary Proceeding: a Summons to Appear and a Summons to Answer. A Summons to Appear orders a defendant to appear in court for a hearing or trial. A Summons to Answer orders a defendant to answer a complaint or petition filed by the opposing party.