Subpoena Duces Tecum

Term from Legal Consultancy industry explained for recruiters

A Subpoena Duces Tecum is a legal document that requires someone to provide specific documents, records, or physical items as evidence. It's different from a regular subpoena that just requires testimony. Think of it as an official request that legally requires a person or organization to bring certain materials to court or provide them for legal proceedings. This term frequently appears in legal job descriptions, especially for roles involving litigation support, document management, or legal operations. It's sometimes called a "document subpoena" or "production subpoena" in simpler terms.

Examples in Resumes

Managed response process for over 100 Subpoena Duces Tecum requests annually

Developed standardized procedures for handling SDT and Subpoena Duces Tecum compliance

Coordinated with IT department to efficiently gather electronic records for Subpoena Duces Tecum responses

Typical job title: "Legal Document Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Litigation Support Specialist Legal Operations Manager Paralegal Legal Document Coordinator Subpoena Response Specialist Legal Records Specialist Document Review Specialist

Where to Find Legal Document Specialists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle conflicting deadlines for multiple subpoena responses?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in prioritizing requests, knowledge of deadline extension procedures, and ability to manage multiple document production projects simultaneously while maintaining compliance.

Q: Describe your experience in developing subpoena response protocols.

Expected Answer: Should show ability to create efficient workflows, implement quality control measures, and establish procedures that ensure both legal compliance and operational efficiency.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take to ensure all responsive documents are properly collected?

Expected Answer: Should explain systematic approach to document collection, including communication with different departments, verification processes, and documentation of collection methods.

Q: How do you maintain chain of custody for subpoenaed documents?

Expected Answer: Should describe tracking methods, documentation procedures, and understanding of importance of maintaining document integrity throughout the collection process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a Subpoena Duces Tecum and how is it different from a regular subpoena?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a legal document requesting specific items or documents, unlike a regular subpoena which requests testimony only.

Q: What basic information should be included in a Subpoena Duces Tecum response?

Expected Answer: Should mention date requirements, document descriptions, contact information, and basic compliance requirements.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic document organization and filing
  • Understanding of legal terminology
  • Knowledge of confidentiality requirements
  • Basic document tracking

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Document collection coordination
  • Response deadline management
  • Legal hold implementation
  • Communication with attorneys

Senior (5+ years)

  • Process development and improvement
  • Team supervision
  • Complex compliance management
  • Stakeholder communication

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of legal document confidentiality
  • Lack of attention to detail in document handling
  • Poor time management with deadlines
  • No experience with legal document management systems