compulsory process

compulsory process definition - legal

n

The right of a defendant to utilize the subpoena power to compel the appearance of favorable witnesses at trial. In civil actions, the right is established by statute and, in some states, by the state constitution. In criminal cases, it is established by the due process clause of the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution. In some cases, the right is also available during hearings or investigations conducted by an administrative agency or a legislative committee.

Webster's New World Law Dictionary Copyright © 2006 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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