How easy is it to quash a subpoena?

Asked by: Sofia McLaughlin  |  Last update: April 1, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (20 votes)

Any person to whom a subpoena is directed, or any party, may file a motion to quash or limit the subpoena. The motion must include reasons why compliance with the subpoena should not be required or the subpoena's scope should be limited. A party must file the motion with the judge and serve it on the other parties.

What are valid reasons to quash a subpoena?

On a timely motion, the issuing court must quash or modify a subpoena that:
  • Fails to allow a reasonable amount of time to comply.
  • Requires a person who is neither a party nor a party's officer to travel more than 100 miles from where that person resides, is employed, or regular transacts business in person.

How long does it take to quash a subpoena?

In a civil case the objection or motion to quash should be made within fourteen days, or prior to the time specified for compliance if that time is less than fourteen days. Otherwise, there is no set deadline for filing a motion to quash, but it probably should be done as soon as possible after receipt of the subpoena.

Can a subpoena be dismissed?

There is a process by which a subpoena can be rejected by the court. Your attorney would have some motions to file on your behalf and the justification needs to be good. Don't even think about trying the pro se - you need an attorney. It all comes down to the prosecutor's discretion.

What are valid reasons to get out of a subpoena?

Valid reasons to get out of a subpoena may include:
  • Did not receive or was not personally served with a subpoena;
  • Medical emergency.
  • Family emergency.
  • Self-incrimination (5th amendment)
  • Privilege.

Motion to Quash Explained

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Can I decline a subpoena?

The court will then consider the challenge or objection and make a ruling. While it may be possible to challenge or object to a subpoena in certain situations, it is generally a legally binding order that must be complied with and shouldn't be refused.

What is the burden of proof for a subpoena?

The burden of proof rests on the subpoenaing party to make a "clear and convincing showing" that the privilege does not apply.

Is there a way to get out a subpoena?

Choosing to try and avoid a subpoena is not an easy process. The person will need to hire an attorney, pay attorney fees in most cases, and will need to prepare a motion. If the motion fails, or if there are other reasons that a party may need the person to testify, they may not be excused.

Can I plead the 5th when subpoenaed?

The Fifth Amendment can be invoked only in certain situations. An individual can only invoke the Fifth Amendment in response to a communication that is compelled, such as through a subpoena or other legal process. The communication must also be testimonial in nature.

Does a subpoena mean you are in trouble?

Essentially, a subpoena, which literally means 'under penalty', requires one to inform under oath (testify) on the facts that are at issue in a pending case. A subpoena is typically requested by an attorney on behalf of the court and issued by a court clerk, notary public or justice of the peace.

How do you write a motion to quash a subpoena?

Steps to File a Motion to Quash Subpoena
  1. Draft the Motion: Clearly outline the grounds for objection, the legal basis, and the requested relief.
  2. File the Motion: Submit the motion to the court where the case is being heard.
  3. Serve the Motion: Serve a copy of the motion to the party that issued the subpoena.

What are the three types of subpoenas?

Three common types of subpoena are – Subpoena duces tecum, deposition subpoena, and witness subpoena.

How to oppose subpoena?

You can object to the subpoena in writing, move to quash or modify a subpoena, or contact the adverse party in the lawsuit who may challenge the subpoena as well.

Where to move to quash subpoena?

Under Rule 45(d)(3)(A), the proper court to bring a motion to quash or modify is the court for the district where compliance is required, which may or may not be the same as the court where the case is pending.

Do I need a lawyer for a subpoena?

You don't generally need an attorney to comply with a subpoena, unless anything you revealed could either harm you in some way, harm your business (e.g. don't reveal any trade secrets without an attorney requesting that info be kept confidential), or would benefit a party you don't want to help.

Can mental health get you out of a subpoena?

Typically, the law recognizes situations where the physical or mental health of the individual would be significantly endangered by complying with the subpoena. This could include cases where the person is hospitalized, suffers from a debilitating chronic illness, or has a severe mental health condition.

Can I refuse to testify if I get a subpoena?

If you or a witness refuse to testify in court after getting summoned by a subpoena, the court may hold you in contempt. This legal offense can result in a court-imposed fine or imprisonment in the worst cases.

Do you have the right to remain silent when subpoenaed?

You have the constitutional right to remain silent. It is not a crime to refuse to answer questions. You do not have to talk to anyone, even if you have been arrested or are in jail.

Can you go to jail for pleading the fifth?

The 5th Amendment protects individuals from being forced to testify against themselves. An individual who pleads the 5th cannot be required to answer questions that would tend to incriminate himself or herself. Generally, there is no penalty against the individual for invoking their 5th Amendment rights.

Can you hide from a subpoena?

If you ignore the subpoena, not only is this likely to raise questions as to why you have chosen not to respond as required, but it could also lead to being held in contempt of court.

How long do subpoenas last?

If it is a subpoena as distinguished from a case starting summons and complaint, a subpoena expires on its return date. But a summons is good for 90 days after the starting of the law suit and can be served alternatively to in hand service.

What happens if the accuser doesn't show up to court?

If a victim fails to appear for a preliminary hearing despite receiving a subpoena, they risk serious legal repercussions. This includes the possibility of arrest for contempt of court. Additionally, their absence might impact the outcome of the case, potentially leading to delays or dismissal.

Can a subpoena be cancelled?

The Administrative Law Judge or the Board, as the case may be, will revoke the subpoena if in their opinion the evidence whose production is required does not relate to any matter under investigation or in question in the proceedings or the subpoena does not describe with sufficient particularity the evidence whose ...

How to prove you were not served properly?

Surveillance: You can provide surveillance footage showing you were not served at the alleged date or that the service was improper. Mail Records: If there's no mail delivered to you or if you haven't signed the receipt. It can indicate improper service.

What makes a subpoena invalid?

A court must quash or modify a subpoena if it does not allow a reasonable time to comply, requires travel of more than 100 miles, requires disclosure of privileged information, or creates an undue burden.