What is a court order compelling a witness to testify called?

A court order compelling a witness to testify is known as a subpoena. This legal document is issued by the court or by an attorney and mandates the individual to appear at a specified time and place to provide testimony regarding a particular case. The subpoena serves as a crucial mechanism in the judicial process, ensuring that witnesses fulfill their civic duty to present information that may be vital to a case.

The term "summons" typically refers to a document that informs an individual that they are being sued and requires them to respond. "Stipulation" refers to an agreement between parties in a legal case regarding certain facts or procedures, while a "demurrer" is a legal objection that challenges the sufficiency of the opposing party’s pleadings rather than a command for testimony. Understanding these distinctions is important for interpreting the roles these terms play in the courtroom and the legal system as a whole.