Okay here's my situation: I was living in FL for a year and in the beginning of September my boyfriend at the time and I got robbed at gunpoint by our neighbor and a friend of his saying we had F*ed someone over and they were there to look for something. We had no idea what they weret alking about but that's beside the point. My question is, will I have to appear in court as the victim/witness? I'm not worried about doing it but I'd like to have an idea of what's to come for me in the near future when it comes to that. I live in TN now so I would have to go back to FL. Anyway, the guy is in county jail now and is awaiting trial. Someone please with some area of expertise help me with this. I do not want any stupid answers from people who want points. This is a serious question. Thanks.
2007-12-22 13:42:58 · 3 answers · asked by Candy C 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Thanks Doc Man. So what do you suggest as far as my job goes? Are they required to give me time off to do this? Would it be the same as if it were jury duty? I'm so lost.
2007-12-22 13:59:13 · update #1
Okay. I've gotten some good answers here and I appreciate them greatly. Now I need someone to tell me if my job is rewuired to give me the time off to take care of this matter. Also should I go ahead and tell them about this and the fact that I may be called to appear? Or is it best to wait until I know for sure? Help me please people I'm so confused. Thanks a bunch!
2007-12-22 14:16:54 · update #2
Unless there were many witnesses locally, or the act was caught on camera, you would likely be asked to testify. If you decline to do so, there is a good chance the perp will walk on this one.
The excuses that people give for criminal acts are pointless. Whatever they were looking for, they used a gun to rob you. Armed robbery is generally a serious felony. The DA would probably NOT prefer to lose that case, so you probably will be called upon.
There is nothing wrong with talking to the DA by phone and explaining that whatever you do, you want to be able to plan it because of the travel involved. A DA really interested in making a good case will try to help on that. Don't be surprised, though, if the lawyers try to delay the case enough times to make you miss a court date by frustrating you - and then lo and behold, they are ready to go and the DA's star witness is absent.
2007-12-22 13:52:02 · answer #1 · answered by The_Doc_Man 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As the victim yes you could have to appear in court for the prosecution to identify the person, check with the prosecuting attorney, you would possibly have to be subpoenad but if you are willing to appear that is just a formally
2007-12-22 13:58:57 · answer #2 · answered by Keith W 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
contact the DA in charge of the case...maybe options like teleconference or video deposition.
2007-12-23 04:19:43 · answer #3 · answered by sirbobby98121 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋