Which type of subpoena is exempt from the general rule that subpoenas are served in the same manner as summons?

• A. Grand jury subpoenas
• B. Civil subpoenas
• C. Certain child support subpoenas
• D. Administrative subpoenas

Answer: (C)

Subpoenas generally must be served in the same way as a summons to ensure proper notice and the opportunity to respond. But there are statutory shortcuts for certain enforcement tools, and child support enforcement is one of them. Subpoenas issued specifically to obtain information or documents for child support purposes are created under state child support statutes and are designed to move quickly to enforce support orders. The law provides their own permissible methods of service—often allowing service by mail or by the issuing agency—without the formal, court-directed personal service that ordinary civil subpoenas require. This streamlines enforcement and reduces delays in collecting child support. The other types follow the standard service rules because they operate within ordinary civil or investigative procedures, so they’re not exempt.