What is the function of a subpoena?

A subpoena serves a crucial function in the legal process by acting as a legal document that compels an individual to appear in court or produce specified evidence or documents relevant to a case. This means that when someone receives a subpoena, they are legally required to attend a court hearing or provide requested information to ensure that the legal proceedings can move forward. This power of compelling attendance is vital to the judicial system, as it helps to gather testimony and evidence necessary for the court to make informed decisions.

In contrast, a request for public records does not mandate an individual's presence or compliance but rather seeks access to documents held by public agencies. A search warrant, while also a legal document, specifically authorizes law enforcement to search a location and seize evidence of a crime rather than direct an individual to appear in court. A notification of a lawsuit, typically known as a summons, informs a party that they are being sued but does not compel them to provide evidence or testimony as a subpoena does. Thus, the clarity and binding nature of a subpoena distinguish it as a critical tool in the judicial system.