What is a subpoena?

A subpoena is a legal document that commands an individual to either appear in court or to produce specific evidence pertinent to a legal case. This tool is used primarily in the context of litigation and legal proceedings, ensuring that critical testimonies or documents are made available for examination by the court. The enforceability of a subpoena means that failure to comply can result in penalties, including contempt of court, making it a powerful instrument in the legal process.

For a better understanding, it's important to distinguish a subpoena from the other listed options. A formal request for a legal document is typically characterized as a request or motion rather than a subpoena, which has a more direct and compulsory nature. A type of contract suggests a mutual agreement between parties, which is unrelated to the compulsory nature of a subpoena. Lastly, a statement of claim refers specifically to the document that initiates a lawsuit, detailing the plaintiff's case against the defendant, which is different from the role of a subpoena in the legal process.