Does being given a subpoena to testify in court mean your in trouble?

Question

I have been given a subpoena to testify as a witness to a fatal car accident my ex boyfriend was in 2 years ago. I suffer from panic disorder so I am very nervous. Does this subpoena mean that I am in any trouble? What will happen? Ive never been through something like this

Answer 1

You would be the defendant if the trial were against you.  You didn't do anything wrong, right?  And you are not the one being tried, so don't worry.  

P.S. Maybe your doc could give you beta-blocker or other medicine to keep you more calm during the trial?

PSS  I had a subpoena as well, but after getting myself all psyched up about what I was going to say, the lawyer settled the day before the trial, and there was no court.  Often they are just bluffing and there won't actually be a trial.

Answer 2

Just like the others have said, they just want you to testify and this is how they do it.

If you were with him, they probably want you to testify to what happened.  If you weren't, then it's probably as a character witness saying what sort of person he is, etc.

The lawyers on one or both sides may want to get an affidavit from you but if you were in the wreck with him and there is a death involved, they will want you to be there in person.

Show up... tell the truth... and it will be over.

Answer 3

no,it just means ur testimony in the case is needed and once you are served, u need to show up...they will ask u what u know about the accident...no..u will need to show up

Answer 4

A summons is bad, that means you are the respondent in a case i.e. the defendant.  A subpoena means you are just a witness.  

You cannot usually get in trouble, unless you lie or do not show up in Court, or refuse to testify.

Answer 5

You are not in trouble.  All they want is your eye witness account.  Just be truthful.  If you don't know or don't remember something, say that.  Just be truthful.  It is nothing to worry about.  If you have a problem being in open court contact whichever side subpoenaed you.  You can always get a medical letter if you are unable to testify.

Answer 6

They will just ask you questions about the accident,answer to your best recollection iF you dont remember just tell them that, you are not in any trouble,so dont worry about it

Answer 7

Take a deep breath and just answer truthfully to whatever you're asked.  A subpoena does not mean you're in any trouble, just that your testimony is needed.

Answer 8

You may be able to swear out an affidavit. Call the court and ask. Sounds like you may have justifiable grounds. Worst they can do is say no. Then you can try some of the other recommendations given by other posters.

Answer 9

No it doesn't mean you are in trouble.  They just want some information from yuou under oath.

Find out what court it is in then attend a case in that court and observe the goings on during a trial.  You will see there isn't much to it.  This will prep you for yoru case.

Good luck  

Answer 10

No you aren't in trouble.  They are just asking you to testify, to be a witness for the prosecution.  I assume someone is getting prosecuted for the accident.

Answer 11

No it doesnt It just means that you have to go and give evidence You are not the one on trial they just want to hear what you have to say Just tell the truth

Answer 12

I'm not a legal expert, but a subpoena is just an order to supply information to the court. I've been subpoenaed before, and it's no big deal, it was actually kinda fun.

But, if you are nervous, or think you may be involved for some reason, seek a lawyer first. For a minimal charge a lawyer should be able to calm your fear.

Answer 13

No.

A subpooena just makes sure that you'll show up.

It's common to subpoena witnesses, even if they agree to attend.