2. Identify the steps in the procedure

2.1 The assignment

The summons is the most common method of initiating proceedings before a civil court. It is the act by which the victim (the plaintiff), represented by his lawyer, invites his adversary, i.e. the person being sued (the defendant), to appear before the judge designated in the writ.

The summons is served on the defendant by a bailiff.

It is then submitted to the court registry by the victim's lawyer, so that the file can be registered.

It is then up to the defendant to make himself known to the court, through his lawyer. If they fail to do so, they run the risk of being tried without being able to defend themselves....