subpoena duces tecum

Definition

A subpoena requiring someone to bring specific documents or evidence to court, Latin for 'bring your receipts.' The legal system's way of demanding 'pics or it didn't happen.'

Example Usage

The prosecutor issued a subpoena duces tecum for all emails between the CEO and the accounting department.

Origin

Latin phrase meaning 'bring with you under penalty,' used since medieval common law

Fun Fact

The penalty for ignoring one can include contempt of court, proving that 'the dog ate my homework' excuse doesn't improve with age.

Source: Discovery and evidence gathering terminology

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