Which term is a legal instrument that requires a person to appear in court and carries penalties for noncompliance?

• A. Warrant
• B. Subpoena
• C. Capias
• D. Domestic Violence Protection Order

Answer: (C)

Capias is the writ that enforces a court’s order to appear by authorizing arrest if the person fails to show up or comply. When someone ignores a subpoena or a direct court order to attend, a capias can be issued so law enforcement can take them into custody and bring them before the court. This creates a real penalty for noncompliance—the risk of being arrested and detained until they appear. A subpoena does require appearance, but it doesn’t itself arrest someone; penalties for noncompliance arise through contempt rather than an arrest writ. A warrant is issued for arrest based on probable cause in criminal matters, not specifically to enforce a failure to appear. A domestic violence protection order is a civil protective order, not a tool to compel court appearance. So capias best fits the description.