What Is A Subpoena And How Can It Help Me With My Criminal Case?

We’ve made it quick and convenient for you to learn about subpoenas!

A subpoena is a legal document issued by an attorney, judge or clerk of court commanding that someone appear in Court, or produce documents pertaining to an issue relevant in a criminal or civil case. To be valid a Subpoena must be served in accordance with state law, and must be issued by an officer of the court.

If you are represented by an attorney they can issue a subpoena which compels a witness in your case to appear at a certain date and time to testify as to matters they saw, heard, or witnessed which may be of use in your case. They can also be used to command people to bring needed documents to court that can be of help in prosecuting or defending your case.

For example a subpoena could be issued to command the production of a Police Officers training records, or disciplinary records if relevant to the defense in your criminal case. Or could be issued to require the appearance of a witness in your case who refuses to voluntarily appear.

If you are not represented by an attorney you can get the Clerk of the Court to issue a subpoena on your behalf. Once issued the subpoena will need to be served on whoever you need to appear in your case. You will also need to get a notarized affidavit of service executed and filed with the court. In Colorado many forms and information regarding subpoena’s can be found at: https://www.courts.state.co.us/Forms/By_JDF.cfm

Many rules apply to issuing and serving subpoenas, including providing statutory notice to subpoenaed parties of various rights and remedies, issuing mileage reimbursement checks etc….. Sedlak & Associates PC is here to help if you have any questions regarding Civil or Criminal Cases and can save you time and money when you need a subpoena issued and served.

- JAS IV