What is the name of your state? PA
I live in Pennsylvania and I received a subpoena to appear as a witness in a criminal trial case involving a reckless driving charge located in Smyth County, VA. Since the distance is approximately 830 miles round trip to the Courthouse in Marion, VA, I will not be able to appear for the court date as indicated on the subpoena unless I get reimbursement for the cost of my travel including out of pocket expenses (such as, meals and lodging). However, the subpoena states that, "Failure to comply with this subpoena could cause you to be fined or jailed for contempt of court." Therefore, if I do not appear for this criminal case, will I be sited for contempt of court as stated on the subpoena? Does this subpoena have any jurisdiction over me since I reside in Pennsylvania and not in Virginia? Will the Commonwealth of Virginia or Smyth County Court reimburse me for my travel expenses, including mileage, meals and lodging? If so, what must I do to request the reimbursement of these expenses?
In summary:
1. What will happen if I fail to appear at the hearing in Smyth County, General District Court? By the way, the subpoena was delivered by ordinary first-class mail, so there is no proof that I received it.
2. Am I entitled to receive reimbursement for travel expenses if I appear? If so, how is the reimbursement determined and how do I apply for the reimbursement?
Thank you for your prompt reply..
I live in Pennsylvania and I received a subpoena to appear as a witness in a criminal trial case involving a reckless driving charge located in Smyth County, VA. Since the distance is approximately 830 miles round trip to the Courthouse in Marion, VA, I will not be able to appear for the court date as indicated on the subpoena unless I get reimbursement for the cost of my travel including out of pocket expenses (such as, meals and lodging). However, the subpoena states that, "Failure to comply with this subpoena could cause you to be fined or jailed for contempt of court." Therefore, if I do not appear for this criminal case, will I be sited for contempt of court as stated on the subpoena? Does this subpoena have any jurisdiction over me since I reside in Pennsylvania and not in Virginia? Will the Commonwealth of Virginia or Smyth County Court reimburse me for my travel expenses, including mileage, meals and lodging? If so, what must I do to request the reimbursement of these expenses?
In summary:
1. What will happen if I fail to appear at the hearing in Smyth County, General District Court? By the way, the subpoena was delivered by ordinary first-class mail, so there is no proof that I received it.
2. Am I entitled to receive reimbursement for travel expenses if I appear? If so, how is the reimbursement determined and how do I apply for the reimbursement?
Thank you for your prompt reply..