What is the difference between a summons and a complaint?

A summons and a complaint are both important documents in a legal action in Maryland. A summons is a legal document that notifies an individual or a business that a lawsuit has been filed against them. It provides notice that the other side has initiated legal action, and that the recipient must appear in court or respond to the complaint. A complaint is a legal document that is filed by the plaintiff against the defendant. It outlines the legal claims that the plaintiff has against the defendant. The complaint generally includes facts supporting the plaintiff’s claims and the remedies that the plaintiff is seeking. In summary, a summons is filed by the plaintiff to advise the defendant that legal action has been initiated, while a complaint is a legal document that outlines the plaintiff’s legal claims and the remedies the plaintiff is seeking. In Maryland, the defendant must then respond to the complaint with an answer within a certain period of time, or face the possibility of being found in default.

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What is the difference between a summons and a complaint?

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