Generally, witnesses, apart from experts retained by the parties, must come to court to testify about matters that they have knowledge of without payment. It is a civic duty imposed upon all citizens in order to insure a just and fair judicial system.
If I miss work to testify, will the district attorney pay for my loss in wages?
I have to testify in court and it is making me very anxious. I am concerned about not knowing what to expect. Who can I talk to about my concerns?
Contact the Victim/Witness Assistance Program of the District Attorney’s Office at (916) 874-6218 or daoffice@sacda.org. A victim advocate will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.
As a witness, do I have to talk in front of the defendant when I am in court?
Yes. The defendant has the right to be present in court to hear what all the witnesses say about him or her. Both the prosecutor and the defendant’s attorney will ask you questions.
I received a subpoena from the D.A.’s Office to appear as a witness in a criminal case. What do I do if I am unable to appear on the date stated in the subpoena?
A subpoena is a court order that must be obeyed. If you have a date conflict, contact the deputy district attorney listed on the subpoena before the appearance date and discuss your conflict. If you do not appear without receiving permission from the deputy district attorney, a warrant can be issued for your arrest.
I received a subpoena. Who do I call to get more information about why I am a witness?
Witnesses are not limited to eye witnesses. You may not have seen the crime happen but you may know something about it. You may also know something about a piece of evidence, or you may know something that contradicts another witness’s testimony. If you wonder why you are testifying in a particular case, contact the deputy district attorney listed on the subpoena for more information.
If I get a subpoena do I have to go to court?
When you receive a subpoena from the District Attorney’s Office, please contact the deputy district attorney listed on the subpoena to get further information and instructions.