Subpoena

usgb/səˈpiːnə/
noun

A legal document ordering someone to attend court.

The witness was served with a subpoena to appear in court.
Visual representation of "subpoena" - A legal document ordering someone to attend court

Often appears as...

  • serve a subpoena
  • issue a subpoena

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "subpoena"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Mandatory Appearance

A subpoena is not just an invitation; it's a legal requirement to appear in court or provide evidence.

Illustration for Mandatory Appearance
Ignoring a subpoena can lead to legal penalties.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Authority Source

Subpoenas are typically issued by a court or a governmental body with legal authority.

Illustration for Authority Source
The court issued a subpoena for the financial records.
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Civil/Criminal Cases

Subpoenas are used in both civil lawsuits and criminal cases for securing witnesses or evidence.

Illustration for Civil/Criminal Cases
He received a subpoena in a civil suit regarding contract disputes.
Visual representation of the word "Subpoena"

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