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AO 88

Subpoena to Appear and Testify at a Hearing or Trial in a Civil Action

Federal · United States Courts · Effective February 1, 2014

This form is a legal order that tells a person they must show up at a court hearing or trial to give testimony. It also explains that the person might be required to bring specific documents or items with them.

Open the official PDFfrom United States Courts

Where this fits in a case

Discovery

Stage: Discovery

This form is used in a civil case when a party needs someone who is not a party to the case to appear in court to testify or to provide documents.

Either party may file.

Common questions

What is this form for?
This form is a subpoena that commands a person to appear at a court hearing or trial to testify. It can also require the person to bring documents or items.
Who fills out this form?
The form is issued by an attorney or the court clerk, and the person who serves it must fill out the Proof of Service section.
Does this form require a fee?
The Proof of Service section mentions that the server may need to tender fees for one day's attendance and mileage.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect February 1, 2014.

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