Which item must be included on the summons?

• A. Name of the state
• B. The defendant's middle name
• C. The county clerk's phone number
• D. The court's seal

Answer: (A)

The essential thing a summons must do is show the court and the jurisdiction directing the action. In North Carolina, that means the document clearly identifies the state whose courts are issuing the summons. Writing “State of North Carolina” (or equivalent) anchors the summons to the correct sovereign authority and helps ensure the defendant understands which court will hear the case and what rules apply. The defendant’s middle name isn’t needed for service, and a county clerk’s phone number isn’t a required part of the summons. In short, naming the state provides the necessary jurisdictional clarity, making it the must-have item.