Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Re: Deposition Subpoena for Production of Business Records

To figure out what this is all about, you can get a copy of the complaint in the underlying case from the court where it was filed. The court and case number should appear on the caption on the first page of the subpoena. You may have to pay a copy fee, but those are public records. Usually a third party subpoena is to gather information in a case and would not involve you, but there may be instances where you would have concern (e.g. if they are claiming copyright infringement regarding a website you designed). Yes, you may want to tell the client. There are some instances where it would benefit both of you to file a protective order to limit what is being requested. That has to be done promptly. Again, they probably just want information about the client's business. If you feel uncomfortable about testifying, you can hire a lawyer to represent you at the deposition. As a separate business recommendation, as a lawsuit sometimes signals financial distress and you're in the middle of a job with the client (and you're in a good position since the client knows you're under oath to just tell it the way it is but doesn't want to provoke/cause negative testimony), it's a great time to collect the retainer for the entire amount due on that website! Also, don't forget to ask the attorney requesting the deposition appearance for your witness fees.

Re: Deposition Subpoena for Production of Business Records

I can only give you general advice here, if you want specific advice email me.

First, a deposition subpoeana is an official court document, it should be complied with, and failure to comply is punishable as contempt of court.

Second, it really has nothing to do with you. You are just a witness, and the party that served you is just looking for information related to the Defendant.

Third, if I had a client who was being sued and had not paid me in full, I would want to know why they were being sued,and how they were going to make sure they could pay me.