Received a Court Summons? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve received a court summons, you are being formally notified that you must attend a hearing. This is a serious legal matter, and it’s vital that you take immediate action.

What Is a Court Summons?

A court summons is a written notice that requires you to attend a criminal court on a specific date. It means you are being prosecuted for an offence and must answer the charge in person at the Magistrates’ Court listed in the document.

A court summons will typically include:

• The name of the defendant

• The charge or offence being brought

• The date, time, and location of the hearing

A court summons is not optional. It is a legal obligation and failure to comply can lead to a warrant for your arrest.

Why Have You Been Summoned?

You may receive a court summons if:

• You were released under investigation by the police and they have now reached a decision to prosecute

• You are being prosecuted for a criminal offence without having been arrested

• You failed to respond to a fixed penalty notice

What Happens If You Don’t Attend?

If you fail to attend court on the date specified in the summons:

• The court may issue a warrant for your arrest

• You may be charged with failing to appear

• Your case could proceed in your absence, which may result in a conviction without your input

Even if you think the matter is minor, not attending puts you at significant legal risk.

What Should You Do?

If you receive a court summons, take the following steps:

1. Read the summons carefully

Note the time, date, and location of the hearing. Check the details of the alleged offence.

2. Contact a criminal defence solicitor

Legal advice is crucial. A solicitor can:

• Access the court file and evidence (advance information)

• Explain your legal position and the likely outcome

• Represent you in court and present your case

• A summons does not mean you are guilty of any offence, it just means that the prosecution believe they have enough evidence to take the case to court

• A solicitor can help you to put forward your defence

• Even if you are planning on pleading guilty, a solicitor can explain the procedure and put forward mitigation to minimise the sentence

3. Assess legal aid eligibility

Legal aid may be available depending on:

• The seriousness of the charge

• Your financial situation

Moss & Co Solicitors will help you understand whether you qualify for legal aid and how to apply.

How Moss & Co Solicitors Can Help

At Moss & Co, we’ve been representing clients across London for over 30 years. Our criminal law team is experienced in handling all types of summons-related matters and appears regularly at Highbury Corner, Thames, and other London Magistrates’ Courts.

We offer:

• Free initial telephone consultation

• Expert guidance at every stage of the process

• Legal aid support and representation

• A personalised defence strategy to secure the best outcome

Our team understands how overwhelming a court summons can be. We work quickly and confidentially to give you clarity and peace of mind.

Speak to a Criminal Defence Expert Today

If you’ve received a court summons, do not delay. Contact Moss & Co Solicitors as soon as possible to get the advice and support you need.

Call us on 0208 986 8336

Moss & Co Solicitors – Trusted Criminal Defence Lawyers Serving North and East London