Dictionary.com says that a “summons” is “a call or citation to appear before a court or a judicial officer” – basically, it’s a command to appear.

WHY YOU NEED IT

A summons is essentially a cover sheet for any lawsuit, including a dissolution (a.k.a. a divorce).  It says you must respond within 20 days (or 60 days if you live outside of Washington).  If you not respond within the 20 days, your soon-to-be ex can get a default judgment against you – generally not a good idea.  All dissolution summonses are pretty much the same.

WHERE YOU GET IT

King County Superior Court has a link to the Washington Courts website. The tricky part is that some forms are county-specific and some are the same throughout the state. The Summons is a state-wide form, and you get it here.

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE

Check out the Summons.