So, You’ve Been Subpoenaed to Testify at the Trial of the Driver of the Vehicle Who Hit You
If you witness or were involved in a motor vehicle collision, you may receive a subpoena requiring you to appear and testify as a witness at the trial for any civil or criminal proceedings commenced in connection with the accident. In a civil trial, witnesses may be called by both the plaintiff and the defendant. In a criminal trial, witnesses may be called by the prosecution or by the defence on behalf of the accused. This post is intended to provide a brief explanation of what to do if you receive a subpoena and why it is important that you clearly understand the process you are being called upon to participate in. As a subpoena is an order from a court, it should not be ignored or brushed aside. Failing to comply with a court order can result in serious consequences including but not limited to warrants for your arrest being issued and/or charges being laid.