Court summons received — civil case

What you need to know

A court summons must be responded to by the date mentioned. Ignoring results in ex-parte orders against you. As defendant in civil case, file Written Statement within 30 days.

Your rights

30 days to file written reply as defendant

Apply for extension of time with reasons

Right to legal representation

Present all defences and evidence

What you should do now

Action first

Do not ignore — engage a lawyer immediately

Read summons carefully: court name, case number, date, what is claimed
Missing court date leads to ex-parte judgment against you
Engage a local civil lawyer — this step genuinely needs professional help

File written statement and appear

You have 30 days to file written reply in civil cases
Attend all hearings with your lawyer and all relevant documents

Acts applicable

Code of Civil Procedure 1908

central

Order 5 — Issue of summons, Order 8 — Written statement within 30 days

Where to complain

eCourts — Find District Court Gujarat State Legal Services Authority (NALSA) — Free Legal Aid

Consumer complaint portal: e-jagriti.gov.in (replaced edaakhil.nic.in as of Jan 2025). Labour complaints: col.gujarat.gov.in. All links verified June 2026 via web search against official government sources.