How can a subpoena duces tecum require a third party to produce a document?

A subpoena duces tecum is a formal legal instrument issued by a court, grand jury, or authorized administrative agency that commands a recipient to produce specific evidence, such as documents or papers, for a legal proceeding.1

The term originates from New Latin, meaning "under penalty you shall bring with you". By serving this writ, the issuing authority legally compels a third party to appear and present the designated materials at a specified time and place. Failure to comply with the command can result in legal penalties, as the recipient is under a mandatory obligation to provide the requested evidence to the court.21