A subpoena is an order issued by the Court which informs him that he is required to attend Court on a specified date and time to give evidence as a witness or to produce documents.
If a subpoena is issued to anyone, it is compulsory for that person to attend Court on the stipulated day and every day of the hearing until the case is completed. If the party fails to attend without valid excuse, he/she will be found guilty of contempt of Court and may be fined or imprisoned.
A person served with the subpoena may contact a firm of solicitors to speak to them to discuss the case and he may be asked to make a statement that is to be given in Court. He may find out from the solicitors when it is necessary to attend Court and may also let them know whether an interpreter is required.