Family Law Term

Subpoena

Definition

A court order requiring a person to appear in court (subpoena ad testificandum) or produce documents (subpoena duces tecum). Failure to comply can result in contempt.

Related terms

Status Conference
An informal court meeting where the judge checks on the progress of a case, discusses scheduling, and encourages settlement. Not a hearing: no testimony is taken.
Stipulation
A written agreement between both parties on one or more issues. Once signed by the judge, it becomes a court order. Common for settling custody and support without a trial.
Supervised Visitation
Parenting time that must occur in the presence of a court-approved supervisor, either at a supervised visitation center or with an approved individual. Ordered when there are safety concerns.
UCCJEA
Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act: determines which state has jurisdiction over custody disputes when parents live in different states. The child's "home state" (where they've lived for 6+ months) has priority.
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