A summons is a process issued in the course of judicial proceedings whereby the court acquires jurisdiction of the defendant from the time of its service. It also serves as a notice that the plaintiff will take judgment against the defendant unless he responds. (Pinon v. Pollard, 69CA2d 129; CCP 412.20) In actions for nullity, dissolution, legal separation, exclusive custody or support of minors without dissolution, a Summons (Family Law) is used instead of the regular civil summons.
(CCP 17 Words and Phrases) (CCP 410.50) (CCP 413.10)