What term refers to a writ issued by court authority to compel the attendance of a witness at a judicial proceeding?

The term that refers to a writ issued by court authority to compel the attendance of a witness at a judicial proceeding is "subpoena." A subpoena is a legal document that orders an individual to appear in court as a witness or to produce evidence, such as documents or records, that may be pertinent to the case. This mechanism ensures that relevant testimony and evidence can be gathered, thereby supporting the pursuit of justice in the judicial process.

An indictment, on the other hand, is a formal charge or accusation that a person has committed a crime, typically issued by a grand jury. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath, used as evidence in court but does not compel attendance. A summons is a document that notifies a person that they are being sued or requires them to appear in court, but it is not specifically for compelling witnesses as a subpoena is. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in grasping the nuances of legal terminology and its application in judicial settings.