What is a subpoena?

A subpoena is a legal document issued by a court, government agency, or lawyer that requires an individual to appear in court to testify or produce documents and evidence relevant to a legal proceeding. It is a powerful tool used in the legal system to compel witnesses to provide testimony or access to information that is essential to a case.

Types of Subpoenas:

There are different types of subpoenas, including:

• Subpoena ad testificandum: Requires a person to testify in a legal proceeding.
• Subpoena duces tecum: Requires a person to produce documents, records, or other tangible evidence relevant to a case.
• Subpoena ad prosequendum: Requires a person to testify in a criminal case as a witness for the prosecution.

Legal Obligations:

Ignoring a subpoena can result in serious consequences, including being held in contempt of court, facing fines, or even being arrested. It is important to comply with a subpoena to avoid these penalties and to ensure the legal process moves forward smoothly.

Overall, a subpoena is a crucial legal tool used to gather information and testimony necessary for a fair and just resolution of legal disputes.