Should I be worried about a summons?
Asked by: Crystal Collier | Last update: April 26, 2026Score: 4.7/5 (6 votes)
Yes, you should take a summons seriously because ignoring it can lead to severe consequences like default judgments, wage garnishment, bank account freezes, or even arrest warrants for criminal matters; instead, carefully read it, note deadlines (usually 20-30 days), understand the case (civil, debt, criminal), and immediately consult a lawyer to file a proper response and protect your rights.
How bad is a court summons?
It is not an order, so you do not have to do what it says. But, if you ignore a summons, you will likely lose the case against you. The court will usually decide the lawsuit in favor of the person suing you. The court could decide that you have to pay money or that you must stop doing something.
Will I go to jail for a summons?
A person who ignores a criminal summons may face significant consequences. First, the court that issued the summons may issue a bench warrant. A bench warrant authorizes law enforcement to arrest you anytime to bring you before the court to resolve your criminal charges.
Can I ignore a court summons?
Legal Consequences of Ignoring a Court Summons can also lead to a contempt of court finding. Contempt occurs when you disobey a court order, and it can result in fines or even imprisonment. In more severe situations, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest.
What happens if you don't accept a summons?
Default judgment: If the person being served fails to respond within the specified time period, the court may enter a default judgment against them. This means that the plaintiff will automatically win the case and may be awarded damages or other remedies requested in the lawsuit.
Is A Legal Summons Something To Worry About? - CountyOffice.org
Can you run away from a summons?
Many people feel that if they ignore or discard a court summons, the problem will somehow disappear. In reality, ignoring a summons can trigger a cascade of legal consequences—from default judgments and wage garnishments to property liens and even arrest warrants in certain situations.
Can I ignore summons?
Ignoring a summon can lead to arrest warrants, ex-parte orders, and even contempt of court. The court can proceed in your absence and pass binding judgments.
Can you decline a summons?
If the summons is for a civil lawsuit (i.e. attached to a complaint or warrant in debt), then you may elect to not appear in court. However, if you do not appear, then the Court will likely award a judgment against you.
What happens if you get sued but own nothing?
Furthermore, a lawsuit judgment is determined by the defendant's liability, not their ability to pay. If the court finds the defendant responsible, they are legally required to compensate you, even if they currently lack the funds.
What happens if you just ignore someone suing you?
Consequences of Ignoring a Lawsuit Once a default judgment is entered, it becomes legally enforceable. That means the plaintiff can start collecting money from you using legal tools such as garnishing your wages, seizing funds from your bank accounts, or placing a lien on your property.
Do summons stay on your record?
A summons is not a warning or a minor matter— the charge still appears on your record, can carry penalties, and may require later fingerprinting if the offense is fingerprintable.
Is my life ruined if I get a misdemeanor?
Facing a misdemeanor conviction can indeed present challenges, but it's essential to recognize that it doesn't have to irreparably harm you for the rest of your life. While there may be negative consequences, there are opportunities for rehabilitation and progress.
Is a summons worse than a ticket?
Never attend court alone when dealing with a summons. Misdemeanor charges can result in harsh penalties, and in some cases, they can be used to enhance future charges into felonies. Even if it seems like just a traffic ticket, a summons can have serious legal repercussions.
What happens if I am summoned to court and don't go?
If you don't go to court and you don't show up for the summons, the Judge is going to issue a bench warrant for you. If there's a bench warrant issued for you, you'll get arrested when you're picked up on that warrant.
What happens if you get sued and you have no money?
Even if you don't have the ability to pay right now, a creditor can still sue you, win a judgment, and use that judgment to collect. Whether you're actually safe from collection depends on whether you're collection-proof — meaning your income and assets are protected by law.
Can you go to jail for refusing to pay a lawsuit?
No.
You cannot be arrested for being unable to afford a judgment. However, you may be arrested if you: Ignore a court summons related to a judgment (e.g., debtor's examination) Fail to appear in court when ordered to do so.
How to avoid being served a summons?
Some people go to great lengths to avoid being served. They might stop answering the door, stop checking their mail, or leave town altogether. In other cases, the defendant may lie to friends and family about their location, or even use aliases to avoid detection. This is a known tactic.
Do I have to go to court if I have been summoned?
You should go to court if you get a summons - you can be arrested and taken to the court by the police if you don't. You might get a summons from the court if: they haven't been able to contact you with a witness warning. they think you might not come on the day.
Is a court summons bad?
If you ignore a civil case summons and do not respond in the required time frame, the court may automatically side with the person suing you. This means you will legally owe the plaintiff what they requested in the original summons.
What happens if you don't answer the door for a summons?
Not answering the door when a process server knocks may lead to some legal repercussions, including missed chances to defend the court case, potentially leading to unfavorable judgments. You should seek professional advice or guidance to understand the documents and how to respond appropriately.