What is a subpoena?

A subpoena is a legal document that commands an individual to appear in court or to produce evidence or documents relevant to a legal proceeding. It serves as a tool to ensure that witnesses and evidence are available to support the judicial process. The authority of a subpoena originates from the need to uphold the legal system's integrity by compelling individuals to comply with the court's request for information or testimony. This formalized legal order carries specific implications, such as potential penalties for noncompliance, which underscores its significance in legal proceedings.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a subpoena. A legal guide for court procedures describes a resource rather than a document used in a legal context. A type of court ruling refers to the decisions made by a judge, which differs from the role of a subpoena in procuring testimony or documents. An informal request for documents lacks the binding legal authority that a subpoena possesses, making it distinguishable from the formal requirements set by the law.