What is the purpose of a legal subpoena?

The purpose of a legal subpoena is to command a person to appear and give testimony. This legal instrument is an essential tool in the discovery process of a lawsuit, as it enables attorneys to obtain firsthand accounts from witnesses who may possess relevant information regarding the case. The subpoena ensures that these individuals are legally obligated to attend court or a deposition and provide their testimony, which can be critical in establishing the facts and supporting the claims or defenses in the litigation.

While there are other legal instruments that might request documents or initiate legal actions, the specific function of a subpoena is centered around compelling testimony from individuals, which makes it distinct from other legal processes used in civil litigation.