What is an administrative subpoena?

An administrative subpoena is a powerful tool that allows an administrative agency to compel the production of documents, testimony, or other evidence necessary for its investigations. This authority empowers the agency to gather information relevant to its regulatory functions or policy inquiries, facilitating oversight and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.

The use of an administrative subpoena reflects the agency's need to operate effectively in carrying out its mission. Unlike informal requests, administrative subpoenas carry legal weight, allowing agencies to enforce compliance. If an individual or entity does not respond to an administrative subpoena, the agency has the option to seek judicial enforcement, further emphasizing its strength as a tool for information gathering.

While a request for voluntary compliance involves asking individuals or entities to comply with regulations, it does not carry the same legal authority as an administrative subpoena. A contract for information sharing between agencies may be a collaborative approach but does not encompass the coercive power inherent in an administrative subpoena. An informal request alone lacks the formal enforcement mechanisms associated with subpoenas, making it significantly less effective in ensuring compliance.