What is a subpoena?

A subpoena is a legal order that compels an individual to testify or produce evidence in a legal proceeding. This formal request is usually issued by a court or an attorney and serves an essential function in the legal system by ensuring that relevant information is made available for investigation or trial.

When someone receives a subpoena, they are legally obligated to comply, which can include attending court, providing documents, or delivering other types of evidence. This process is critical to the integrity of proceedings, allowing both the prosecution and defense to present a full picture of the facts before the judge or jury.

The other options do not accurately capture the legal nature of a subpoena. A request for evidence from witnesses lacks the enforcement power that a subpoena carries, an informal interview does not have the same legal binding, and a document summarizing a case does not involve the obligation for testimony or evidence production. Thus, the definition of a subpoena as a legal order is essential to understanding its role in the investigative and judicial processes.