What type of legal document orders a witness to appear in court?

A subpoena is the correct legal document that compels a witness to appear in court. It serves as a formal order issued by the court or an authorized party, requiring the individual named in the subpoena to provide testimony or produce documents relevant to a legal proceeding. This mechanism is vital for ensuring that necessary evidence is presented in front of the judge or jury, enabling the legal process to function effectively.

While a writ is a broader legal term referring to any formal written order issued by a body with administrative or judicial jurisdiction, it does not specifically pertain to summoning a witness. An affidavit is a sworn statement of facts made in writing and is often used as evidence but does not order someone to appear. A complaint is a document that initiates a lawsuit, outlining the claims against a defendant, and likewise does not serve the purpose of summoning an individual to court. Understanding these definitions clarifies how a subpoena uniquely fulfills the requirement of compelling witness attendance in legal proceedings.