Witness Information

Witness Responsibilities

As a witness you have a very important job to do.

Your responsibility is to appear in court as directed and state the facts truthfully and accurately as you remember them. Your role is essential to the American system of justice.

All subpoenaed witnesses have personal information about the crime. Witnesses often think that what they know about an incident may not be significant. However, even small pieces of information can be critical in determining what actually happened and ultimately the outcome of the case.

Since most witnesses are unfamiliar with court procedures, they may suffer fear and stress about their role and responsibilities.

Witness Resources

The Witness Support brochure was developed to alleviate some of the common concerns and misconceptions witnesses often experience. Download the Witness Support brochure (PDF).

If you have questions about a subpoena you have received, see the subpoenas page.