Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Someone I know landed themselves at a detention facility for a parole violation for a misunderstanding. I was there when they got arrested. Since my name is on the police report, is it possible for me to speak as a witness on their behalf, at his hearing which will be at the detention facility, without getting a subpoena? I don't want an officer showing up at my house delivering subpoenas when I want to go at my own will or receive any phone calls from lawyers. I don't own the house where I reside. Also, don't want to disturb others and want to keep this issue a private matter.


Asked on 2/24/10, 10:00 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Marshall Law Office of Robert L, Marshall

You cannot just walk into a parole hearing and start talking. In order to testify, you would have to be called as a witness by one of the attorneys.

Although you think your statements may be helpful, your friend's attorney wouldn't want to call you s as a witness without speaking to you first. No competent attorney calls a witness without knowing what that person is likely to say.

I would suggest calling your friend's attorney. If it turns out your testimony will be helpful, his attorney can make arrangements to interview you privately. If you must be served with a subpoena, it doesn't have to happen at your home, and the lawyer can make arrangements have you pick it up from the lawyer's office.

If your statements are truly helpful, your friend's lawyer will want to avoid embarrassing you, if it is at all possible.

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Answered on 3/01/10, 12:14 pm


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