How do I get a summons issued?

You may file a proposed summons (using the standard summons form, AO-440) electronically at the time you file the complaint.  (If you do not file a proposed summons electronically at the time you file the complaint, you may do so at any time within the prescribed time frame set forth in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.)  The Clerk’s Office will issue the official summons electronically after a judge is assigned to the case.  You will receive a Notice of Electronic Filing (NEF) when the Clerk’s Office enters the summons on the docket.  Click on the hyperlink in the NEF to access the summons, save it, and print copies of the summons for service on each defendant.

The Summons AO-440 Form must be properly completed.  Please refer to the Summons in a Civil Action page for instructions and sample completed summons.