What does a Subpoena Duces Tecum require?

A Subpoena Duces Tecum is a specific type of subpoena that mandates an individual to produce documents, records, or evidence for inspection in a legal proceeding. This means that if you receive such a subpoena, you are legally obligated to bring specified documents to court or to a deposition where the proceedings take place.

This form of subpoena is particularly important in legal contexts where documentary evidence is crucial for establishing facts or supporting a party's case. It distinctly differs from other types of subpoenas, such as those requiring a person to testify, as it focuses specifically on tangible materials that may be needed for evidence. Understanding the function of a Subpoena Duces Tecum highlights the significance of written documentation in the legal process, showing that sometimes physical evidence can be just as persuasive, if not more so, than oral testimony.