Subpoena

A refusal to testify is considered civil contempt. But even civil contempt is considered quasi-criminal in nature. That means that a person is entitled to certain constitutional procedures. For example, the witness is entitled to consult with a lawyer.

You can Subpoena the witness, which requires them to come to court. You can also use a Subpoena during discovery.Fill in the name of the case, the name and address of the witness, and the courtroom for the case. When you Subpoena a witness, you must pay them a witness fee and travel costs.

As a subpoena is a court order, failing to respond to a subpoena without lawful excuse is a contempt of court. There may be civil or criminal penalties. A subpoena must be served by giving it to an individual, or delivering it to the registered office of a company (including by post).

Lawyers who are licensed in the state usually have the power to issue a subpoena. However, individuals who are a party to a lawsuit and other individuals may also be able to issue a subpoena, depending on the rules of civil or criminal procedure in the court that has jurisdiction of the case.

You must engage legal counsel to file a motion to quash in the appropriate court, and you must also be prepared for the possibility that the agency or party that sought or issued the subpoena will simply seek to have it re-served by authorized means.

Opening Statements and Examination of Witnesses The plaintiff has the burden of proof in civil cases, so their attorney will start with presenting their case. This involves calling witnesses to testify on their behalf, as well as presenting any documents or other tangible items that are relevant.

If you ignore the order, the court will hold you in contempt. You could go to jail or face a large fine for ignoring the Subpoena. Subpoenas are used in both criminal and civil cases.If you get a Subpoena and do not want to testify or turn over documents, do not just ignore it.