What does the term "subpoena" refer to?

The term "subpoena" indeed refers to a legal order that compels an individual to appear in court or to produce documents relevant to a legal proceeding. This is a fundamental concept in legal proceedings, as it ensures that individuals who may have information that is pertinent to a case are required to share that information with the court or the parties involved.

When a subpoena is issued, it serves to uphold the legal process by mandating cooperation from witnesses or parties who might otherwise not participate voluntarily. The enforcement of a subpoena is vital for the discovery process in litigation, allowing attorneys to gather necessary evidence and ensuring a fair trial.

The other options represent different legal concepts: a request for information pertains more to informal inquiries or discovery processes outside of a subpoena; a formal accusation of a crime refers to an indictment or charge; and an agreement between parties to handle a dispute typically describes a settlement or mediation agreement, not a subpoena. Each of these concepts is important but distinct from the role and function of a subpoena in legal proceedings.