What is the purpose of a subpoena duces tecum?

• A. It directs a witness to bring with him or her any instrument of writing or other tangible thing desired as evidence
• B. It requires the witness to answer questions in writing only
• C. It orders the witness to appear in a different courtroom
• D. It allows the witness to skip appearance if unavailable

Answer: (A)

A subpoena duces tecum is a legal order that commands a witness to produce documents or other tangible items. The purpose is to secure evidence in the form of records or objects that the witness has in their possession, custody, or control, so the court can examine them at a specified time and place. This kind of subpoena focuses on producing evidence, rather than simply answering questions. It’s distinct from requests that compel testimony in writing or from orders to move to a different courtroom. If someone doesn’t comply, the court can enforce the subpoena, potentially through contempt.