This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013.
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A subpoena is a legal document that orders the recipient (whether a person or an organization) to provide sworn testimony at a predetermined time and place pertaining to a legal investigation or proceeding. [1] X Research source There are also other types of subpoenas, which may command you to supply materials in your possession (subpoena duces tecum) or appear to provide a deposition in the discovery phase of a trial (deposition subpoena). [2] X Research source Regardless of the type of subpoena you receive, knowing how to respond to the document is the first step in properly complying with the order.