What is required to justify an administrative subpoena in an investigation?

What is required to justify an administrative subpoena in an investigation?

• A. The information sought is reasonably related to a proper subject of inquiry and there is some basis for inquisitorial action.
• B. The information sought must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• C. A court order is always required for subpoenas.
• D. Subpoenas can be issued without any justification.

Answer: (A)

Administrative subpoenas hinge on showing a legitimate inquiry and a reasonable connection to the information sought. The agency must have a proper subject of investigation and a basis for inquisitorial action, meaning there’s enough reason to believe the requested records or testimony will illuminate the matter. This is not about proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt—that criminal standard doesn’t apply to administrative subpoenas. A court order isn’t always required to issue a subpoena; agencies can exercise their subpoena power under statutory authority, though enforcement can involve the courts if challenged. Subpoenas may not be issued without any justification—the request must be tied to the investigation and be reasonably related to its scope.

Administrative subpoenas hinge on showing a legitimate inquiry and a reasonable connection to the information sought. The agency must have a proper subject of investigation and a basis for inquisitorial action, meaning there’s enough reason to believe the requested records or testimony will illuminate the matter. This is not about proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt—that criminal standard doesn’t apply to administrative subpoenas. A court order isn’t always required to issue a subpoena; agencies can exercise their subpoena power under statutory authority, though enforcement can involve the courts if challenged. Subpoenas may not be issued without any justification—the request must be tied to the investigation and be reasonably related to its scope.