Appearance

The coming into court of either of the parties to an action; the proceeding in an action by which the defendant comes or is brought before the court to answer to the action, — necessary that the court may proceed to judgment. It is compulsory, where it is made by reason of process duly served; and voluntary, where it is in answer to a subpoena or summons, without process. It is general where it is an absolute submission to the jurisdiction of the court; and special, where it is made for certain purposes only. It is conditional where it is to become general only in a certain event; and de bene esse, where it is to remain an appearance, except in a certain event; optional, where it is made by a party not bound to appear but who does appear to protect his rights; and subsequent where it is made by the defendant after an appearance entered for him by the plaintiff.