What is the legal definition of duces tectum?

Answer 1

A subpoena duces tecum refers a to a judicial writ compelling one to appear before the court and to bring required evidence. This is in addition to being required to give verbal or written testimony--such as documents, or other corroborating evidence.

Although these documents, when prepared or executed by someone other than the individual bringing them before the court, who is not before the court, are hearsay, they are often admissible notwithstanding under the business records exception or the public records exception.