summons, writ of The commencing stage of an action whereby the defendant is called on to acknowledge the claim being made by the plaintiff and to give notice of his intention to defend (if that be the case). It (rather than an originating summons must be used in the case of a claim relating to tort (other than trespass to land) or to an allegation of fraud or to damages in respect of death or personal injury. It must be endorsed with a statement of claim (special endorsement) or a statement of the nature of the claim or relief or remedy required (general endorsement).