California Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a subpoena?

1. To notify of impending lawsuits

2. To compel an individual to testify or produce evidence

3. To collect debts on behalf of a client

4. To enforce a court judgment

The correct answer is: To compel an individual to testify or produce evidence

A subpoena serves the critical function of compelling an individual to either testify in a legal proceeding or produce evidence that is pertinent to a case. This legal document is a tool used by attorneys or courts to ensure that necessary information and witness testimonies are available during legal proceedings. When issued, a subpoena outlines the specifics of what is required from the recipient, such as documents or personal attendance at a deposition or trial, and failure to comply can lead to legal penalties. In this context, the purpose of a subpoena is vital because it helps uphold the integrity of the judicial process by guaranteeing that all relevant facts and testimonies are made available, which contributes to fair and thorough legal resolutions. This is distinct from other options, such as notifying individuals of lawsuits, collecting debts, or enforcing judgments, which do not specifically relate to the function of a subpoena in a legal setting.