Never been served

[Tomcat2]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? New York. I recieved a photo copy of what looks like a letter of contempt of court hearing. I was not served a summons. The two photocopies say "the purpose of this hearing is to punish you for a contempt of court." How can that happen? Doesn't the petitioner need to show proof of me being served? The petitioner is an estranged brother. I found out through family that the summons was in fact signed by son of brother. I have a lawyer looking into the case, but what can someone do to stop this kind of thing ? It's scary to think ANY one can do this to others.