Does a subpoena have to be accompanied by a witness fee?

Under CPLR 2303, a subpoena must be accompanied by the statutory witness fee and mileage allowance at the time of service. We can include the fee with service — tell us when submitting the order. Fees pass through at cost.

Can a subpoena be served on a corporation?

Yes. A subpoena duces tecum can be served on a corporate records custodian or through an officer, managing agent, or registered agent under CPLR 311.

What if the witness refuses to accept the subpoena?

Under the rules for service of process, a witness who refuses to physically take the document can be served by leaving it in their presence. Refusal does not defeat service. Our affidavit notes refusal where it occurs.

Process Serving

Serve Subpoenas in New York

A subpoena compels a person to testify, produce documents, or both. Under CPLR 2303, a subpoena must be served the same way as a summons. An unserved or improperly served subpoena is unenforceable, and a witness who receives no proper service cannot be held in contempt for failing to comply.

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What we do

How we handle subpoenas

We serve subpoenas ad testificandum (to testify), duces tecum (to produce documents), and trial subpoenas on witnesses, custodians of records, and third parties at residential, business, or employment addresses. A notarized affidavit of service is returned on completion.

Timeline

Standard service is completed in 3 to 7 business days. Subpoenas with depositions or trial dates imminent benefit from rush service — contact us immediately for tight timelines.

Pricing

Residential service in NYC and Long Island is $135. Corporate entity service is $115 statewide. Individual statewide service is $175. Witness fees are a pass-through at the statutory rate.

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FAQ

Questions about serving subpoenas

Does a subpoena have to be accompanied by a witness fee?: Under CPLR 2303, a subpoena must be accompanied by the statutory witness fee and mileage allowance at the time of service. We can include the fee with service — tell us when submitting the order. Fees pass through at cost.
Can a subpoena be served on a corporation?: Yes. A subpoena duces tecum can be served on a corporate records custodian or through an officer, managing agent, or registered agent under CPLR 311.
What if the witness refuses to accept the subpoena?: Under the rules for service of process, a witness who refuses to physically take the document can be served by leaving it in their presence. Refusal does not defeat service. Our affidavit notes refusal where it occurs.

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Same-day and rush options available. We will quote your job in minutes and start the clock on the same call.

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