subpoena

A subpoena (from Latin “under penalty”) is a legal order compelling a person to testify before a court or legislative body (subpoena ad testificandum) or to produce documents, records, or other evidence (subpoena duces tecum). Failure to comply without legal justification can result in a finding of contempt. Congressional subpoenas issued by committees carry the force of law, though they are often contested on grounds of executive privilege, attorney-client privilege, or the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Courts have generally upheld the broad investigative power of Congress to subpoena witnesses and documents relevant to legislation or oversight.