Subpoena
Noun
Definition: A written order issued by a court, commanding a person to appear, give testimony, and/or produce documents or evidence in a legal proceeding.
Synonyms: Summons, Legal order
Antonyms: N/a
- The lawyer served the witness with a subpoena to testify in the trial.
- The documents for the case were obtained through a subpoena.
Verb
Definition: To issue or deliver a subpoena to someone.
Synonyms: Summon, Order, Call upon
Antonyms: N/a
- The prosecuting attorney subpoenaed the key witness to appear in court.
- The judge authorized the defense lawyer to subpoena the necessary documents.
Etymology:
Latin 'sub poena', meaning "under penalty"
Historical Usage:The use of subpoenas can be traced back to ancient Rome, where they were part of the legal system. The modern concept of a written court order compelling someone's presence or the production of evidence started to develop in English common law during the Middle Ages.
Related Idioms:
"Subpoena duces tecum"
Explanation:A specific type of subpoena that commands the person to bring specified documents or evidence along with them to court.
Misconceptions:
A subpoena can only be issued by a low court.
Explanation:A subpoena can be issued by any court with appropriate jurisdiction, not only low courts. The level of the court does not determine the validity or enforceability of a subpoena.