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I received an appearance notice (or summons), now what?

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Reviewed by
Nov 3, 2021

You must go to court if you receive an appearance notice or summons. An appearance notice is given to people who are required to testify in a criminal trial on a specific day and time. A summons is given to someone charged with a crime, requiring them to appear in court on a specific day and time.

Put the date in your calendar. If you need more information relating to an appearance notice, consider contacting the Lawyer Referral Service. If you receive a summons, talk to a lawyer. If you do not have one, contact Legal Aid BC to inquire about getting a lawyer to represent you. Read more about appearance notice and summons on the BC government website or from People’s Law School.