What is the legal term for a written order requiring someone to appear in court?

The term that refers to a written order requiring someone to appear in court is "summons." A summons is specifically designed to notify a person that they are being called to respond to a legal proceeding. It informs the individual of the time, place, and purpose of the court appearance.

While a subpoena may also require a person to appear in court or produce evidence, it is typically used in the context of a witness being compelled to testify or provide documents in a legal case. This is different from a summons, which is more general and often associated with initiating a lawsuit.

Citations are generally associated with law enforcement, where an individual may receive a citation for a violation such as a traffic infraction. An affidavit, on the other hand, is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation, used primarily as evidence in court proceedings, but does not require someone to appear in court.

Understanding the distinction between these terms is crucial for navigating the legal system effectively.