Final answer:
When served with a subpoena, an organization must immediately consult with legal counsel and act in accordance with their advice to comply with the subpoena, which includes producing evidence or testifying in court. Ignoring a subpoena can lead to legal consequences.
Step-by-step explanation:
When served with a subpoena, an organization should promptly consult with legal counsel to respond appropriately and comply with legal obligations.
A subpoena is a legal document that requires an individual or organization to provide evidence or testify in a legal proceeding. Upon being served with a subpoena, it's imperative that organizations do not ignore it. The first step an organization should take is to immediately contact their legal counsel. Legal professionals will provide guidance on how to proceed, which typically includes reviewing the subpoena for its scope, relevance, and any burdensome demands.
Once counsel is notified, they will determine the deadline for compliance and may engage in negotiations with the party that issued the subpoena if there are grounds to modify or quash it. It's crucial to preserve any relevant documents and information and to avoid any actions that could be construed as obstructing justice, such as destroying evidence. With advice from legal counsel, the organization will usually produce the required documents, arrange for witness deposition, or provide testimony as necessary.
Failure to comply with a subpoena can result in legal penalties, including fines and contempt of court charges, so prompt and proper action is essential.