What is a "subpoena"?

A subpoena is a legal instrument that compels an individual to either appear in court or produce documents or evidence relevant to a legal proceeding. It is an essential part of the legal process, ensuring that both parties have access to the necessary information that may influence the outcome of a case.

In the context of litigation, a subpoena can take two forms: a subpoena ad testificandum, which orders a person to testify before the court, and a subpoena duces tecum, which requires a person to produce documents or other tangible evidence. This tool is crucial for maintaining the integrity and thoroughness of judicial proceedings, as it helps establish the facts of a case through direct evidence.

The other options describe different legal concepts that do not align with the definition of a subpoena. A legal order to cease activity, for instance, does not pertain to the production of testimony or documents, while a request for legal representation relates to the hiring of an attorney, and a summary of court rulings pertains to the outcomes of previous cases rather than the mechanism by which evidence is retrieved in current proceedings.