A subpoena is a written order to compel an individual to give testimony on a particular subject, often before a court, but sometimes in other proceedings (such as a Congressional inquiry). Failure to comply with such an order to appear may be punishable as contempt.
clerkA subpoena is typically requested by an attorney on behalf of the court and issued by a court clerk, notary public or justice of the peace. A subpoena may be served on an individual either through personal delivery, email, certified mail or even by reading it out aloud.
A subpoena is an order issued by the court. The subpoena usually requires you to appear at a certain place, date, and time to testify as a witness about a particular case. In a criminal case, you can be subpoenaed only to testify in court. In a civil case, you may be subpoenaed for out-of-court testimony as well.
How to Respond to a Third-Party Subpoena for DocumentsConsider Engaging an Attorney. ... Businesses: Notify Anyone Else of Importance. ... Identify all individuals who have responsive documents. ... Instruct individuals on how to search for and collect documents. ... Comply with the subpoena and provide the requested documents.More items...