Legal:
* Subpoenaed: This specifically means being legally ordered to appear in court.
* Compelled to appear: This implies a legal obligation to attend court.
* Summoned: Similar to subpoenaed, but can also be used for informal requests to appear.
* Ordered to appear: This is a general phrase that can be used in any legal context.
* Required to appear: A more formal way of saying "have to appear."
Informal:
* Dragged into court: This implies being unwillingly forced to attend.
* Taken to court: This suggests being brought to court by someone else.
* Facing legal action: This refers to the overall process of being involved in a legal dispute.
The best word to use will depend on the specific situation and the desired tone.