subpoena

An order issued under the authority of a court, commanding a person to appear in court on a particular date, usually to give testimony in a legal case.

To serve or summon with such a writ.

A writ requiring someone to appear in court to give testimony.

To summon with a subpoena.

A writ issued by court authority to compel the attendance of a witness at a judicial proceeding; disobedience may be punishable as a contempt of court.