What is a 'Subpoena'?
A court order for testimony or documents.
A "subpoena" is a formal order issued by the court (or an attorney on behalf of a court) that compels an individual or entity who is not a party to the lawsuit to provide evidence.
There are two common types of subpoenas. A "subpoena ad testificandum" requires a person to appear for a deposition or hearing to give testimony. A "subpoena duces tecum" requires a person or company to produce specific documents.