What is a notice to appear?

A notice to appear is fundamentally a written order that requires an individual to attend a court hearing. This document is used primarily in legal contexts where an individual's presence is mandatory, such as in cases involving criminal charges or certain civil matters. The notice outlines the specific details regarding the time, date, and location where the individual must appear to respond to the charges or participate in the legal proceedings.

In contrast, other options do not capture the essence of what a notice to appear represents. A legal document for a civil matter, while it may involve court proceedings, does not specifically denote the requirement for appearance like a notice to appear does. A form for submitting evidence does not pertain to the appearance requirement but rather to the process of providing documentation in court. Similarly, a notification of a change in court dates refers to rescheduling rather than mandating attendance, which is a core function of a notice to appear. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing the role of various legal documents in the judicial process.