Translation guide
A subpoena is a legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce evidence. In Japanese legal contexts, the concept is expressed through specific terms and phrases, but the system and terminology differ from common-law countries.
A document ordering a person to appear as a witness or party in a legal proceeding.
The standard term for a court summons or subpoena to appear. Used in both civil and criminal cases.
I received a subpoena from the court.
Refers specifically to the summoning and questioning of a witness, often used in political or high-profile contexts (e.g., Diet testimony).
A witness subpoena was issued in the Diet.
A general order to appear, not limited to courts. Can be used for police or administrative summons.
I received an order to appear from the police.
A subpoena demanding the production of documents, records, or other tangible evidence.
A broader term for any official notification requiring a person to appear or respond legally.
The English word 'subpoena' is often used as a verb ('to subpoena someone'). In Japanese, you cannot directly say サピーナする. Instead, use phrases like 召喚状を送る (send a subpoena) or 証人として呼び出す (summon as a witness).
召喚状 is the formal court subpoena, while 呼出状 is a broader summons that can be used by police or administrative bodies. For a court-issued document compelling appearance, 召喚状 is more precise.
The witness was subpoenaed to testify.
They subpoenaed all the financial records.
The lawyer requested a subpoena for evidence.
証人の召喚が行われた。
A subpoena was issued for the witness.