Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia
I recently was involved in a domestic violence incident between my boyfriend and I, and I didn't realize that domestic violence is very very serious in some cases, but mine is not one of them.
We got into and argument and there was some pushing and shoving, but no hitting of any kind. And I was upset and angry so I called the police, not because I was afraid or hurt, but angry. I didn't know that the case would be taken so far without me pressing any charges. So, the common wealth of virginia is pressing charges against my boyfriend against my will and they subpoenaed me to testify as a witness against him and I don't want to and hadn't planned on doing so. In the subpoena it stated that I could be charged with contempt of court if I don't show. I was wondering what is the worst that could happen to me if I don't show. I have no criminal record what so ever, so it would be a first time offense for me. Thanks for your help
1 Answer from Attorneys
The worst that likely would happen to you is that the court would grant the Commonwealth's request for a "rule against the witness", i.e. a Rule to Show Cause (as to why you should not be found in contempt of court for your nonappearance at the trial), and for which you would then have to appear in court to answer and explain why you should
not be sanctioned, accordingly.
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