§ 703 Subpoena defined.

A subpoena is a legal order that tells someone they must show up to court or come before a judge. It's the tool courts use to make sure a witness attends a hearing or trial when their testimony is needed.

If you receive a subpoena, it means the court is requiring you to appear, not just asking. Ignoring it can lead to legal trouble, since it's an official order backed by the court's authority.