What must occur for a person to default from a court appearance?

For a person to default from a court appearance, it is essential that they have been given notice to appear. Notice is a fundamental component of due process, ensuring that individuals are aware of their legal obligations and the specifics of their court dates. When a person is properly notified, they have the opportunity to attend court and defend themselves or present their case. Failing to appear after receiving such notice can result in a default judgment or other legal consequences.

In this context, if a person has not received proper notice, they cannot be held accountable for failing to appear because they may not have been informed of the requirement in the first place. Thus, the provision of notice is a critical prerequisite for any subsequent actions taken by the court against the individual for non-appearance. This underscores the importance of clear communication in the judicial process and the protection of individual rights.