Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

required to appear at trial

I am required to appear at trial as plaintiff. It shown that i can be arrested if don't come/call.

However, I am out of country at this time.

Is it really so serious about arrest, or just way of pushing?

I even do not want to be there. I don't have anything against defendant and want this case to be dropped.

I need to know what are the ways can be if i don''t come (i still cannot):

- can that case be dropped because of my dissapear?

- can trial be rescheduled?

- can i be arrested?

Thank you


Asked on 9/11/07, 9:19 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: required to appear at trial

This post is in the criminal section so you aren't the plaintiff unless you are the prosecutor. You are just a witness. As a witness you can have a warrant served for your arrest if there is personal service of the summons or there is actual notice of its contents. So, if you've called the prosecutor's office and asked if you really need to come--you have actual notice and can get arrested.

That said, it is very unlikely they will extradite you from another country on a material witness warrant (although I suppose it depends on the case). I cannot say if the case will be dropped without knowing more. I'd recommend we meet to consult but, as you said, you are out of the country.

If you get back anytime soon contact me directly and we can arrange a consultation.

At your service,

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Answered on 9/11/07, 1:16 pm


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