Order issued in writing by a court of law (e.g., subpoena).

Legal order by a court compelling a regulatory officer (insurance commissioner) to perform a specific act.

1. Assets or debts that have been determined to be uncollectable and are therefore adjusted off the accounting books as a loss. This does not represent a discount. 2. Difference between the total fee the provider billed for a medical service and the insurance company’s allowed fee for the service.