A subpoena in its most simple terms is a documents that requires an individual to appear in court or other proceedings in order for the information to be acquired about a particular case. If you receive a subpoena that will require you to appear and testify in court in regards to a pending criminal case, this is no laughing matter and one you should take seriously. Here are a few tips you should follow if you find yourself in this situation.

Hire a Criminal Law Attorney

Even if you do not feel you are connected to the person that committed the crime, having to testify under oath in a criminal trial can be quite stressful. You could also unknowingly say something on the stand that could get you in legal trouble as well if you are not careful.

If you receive a subpoena from a court or someone's attorney, you should hire a criminal law attorney immediately to represent you.

Even if the lawyer who served you the subpoena acts like they are on your side and only want information, you should still hire your own attorney to ensure that own interests are always protected.

Write Down What Happened and Memorize It

People who are served subpoenas are often required to provide testimony about what they know about a specific incident. Things can be especially high stakes in a criminal trial, so you will want to make sure you have your facts straight. Discuss with your attorney your version of events as they unfolded.

Write down what happened on paper, and make sure you know your story inside and out. An opposing lawyer may try to trip you up on details about your testimony, so it is important to have a strong grasp on what went on.

Roleplay with Your Attorney

The best criminal law attorneys will have their clients fully prepared for anything that could happen on the witness stand. Even if you yourself are not accused of a crime and are only there to testify, you need to make sure you can withstand a cross examination if it is likely someone in court will disagree with your version of events.

Work with your attorney to write down a series of likely questions that the opposing side could ask while you are on the witness stand and come up with foolproof answers. Practice remaining calm while under cross examination so that you remain credible as a witness.

If you receive a subpoena to testify in a criminal case, contact a lawyer immediately. You want to have someone who is on your side with no one else's interests in mind. Figure out what you will have to testify about and come up with a clear and concise version of events for the judge or jury. Memorize what you will say on the witness stand and prepare yourself mentally with the help of your attorney for any cross examination you may face.

To learn more, contact a company like The Law Office of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. with any questions or concerns you have.

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