Summons in a Civil Action

US Federal Courts · Civil

Verified current as of August 1, 2026

# Summons in a Civil Action (AO 440) This form is used to officially notify a defendant that they are being sued in federal court and must respond within a specific timeframe, usually 21 days. A plaintiff (the person filing a lawsuit) or their lawyer would use this form to start a civil case and tell the defendant they need to appear in court or file a written response.