What is a Subpoena?
A subpoena is a legal document that orders individuals to appear in court or provide evidence for a case. It is typically issued by a court, lawyer, or government agency and carries the force of law.
Types of Subpoenas
- Subpoena ad testificandum: Requires a person to testify in court.
- Subpoena duces tecum: Requires a person to produce documents or evidence.
Legal Implications
Failure to comply with a subpoena can result in contempt of court charges, fines, or even imprisonment.
Examples of Subpoenas
In a criminal case, a prosecutor may issue a subpoena to a witness to testify against a defendant. In a civil case, a lawyer may subpoena financial records to prove a party’s income.
Case Studies
In the case of United States v. Nixon, the Supreme Court compelled President Nixon to hand over recordings related to the Watergate scandal in response to a subpoena.
Statistics on Subpoenas
According to a survey, over 90% of subpoenas issued are complied with, demonstrating the legal weight they carry.
