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Law 101: Legal Guide for the Forensic Expert

Subpoena duces tecum

Another type of subpoena that may be issued compels the witness to produce documents, data or other physical evidence created or in the expert's possession (such as hair, blood or saliva samples). This is called a subpoena duces tecum which, in Latin, means "appear and bring with you."

Generally, in order for a subpoena duces tecum to compel the production of anything (other than a witness's appearance), the subpoena duces tecum must also be properly served, as defined above.

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