What Is a Subpoena?
A subpoena is a court order requiring a person to:
- Appear in court or at a deposition
- Provide documents, records, or other evidence
Types of Subpoenas
- Subpoena Ad Testificandum – Requires a person to testify in court.
- Subpoena Duces Tecum – Requires the recipient to produce documents or evidence.
How Is a Subpoena Served?
Who Can Serve a Subpoena?
Depending on the jurisdiction, a subpoena can be served by:
- A licensed process server
- A law enforcement officer
- A court-appointed representative
Methods of Serving a Subpoena
- Personal Service – Hand-delivering the subpoena to the recipient.
- Certified Mail – Sending the subpoena via registered mail with a return receipt.
- Alternative Service – Delivering the subpoena to a responsible party if the recipient is unavailable.
Consequences of Ignoring a Subpoena
Failure to comply with a subpoena can lead to:
- Contempt of court charges
- Fines and legal penalties
- A potential arrest warrant
Conclusion
The service of subpoena ensures that key witnesses and evidence are presented in court. Understanding how subpoenas work and responding correctly can help avoid legal trouble.