what happens if you on't answer a summons to appear in court as a witness?

[roxannjr]

If I was summoned to appear in court as a witness anddon't want to go, What will happen?

[buildersmate]

If you fail to go, it is a contempt of court. You may then be fined, and/or liable to be arrested for contempt.

[Buenchico]

You risk a warrant for your arrest being issued because you'll be in contempt of court. If that happens you can be held in the court's cells (or in prison) indefinitely, until such time as you you 'purge the contempt' by appearing before the court to give evidence.

In practice it's fairly rare (but certainly not unknown) for someone to be imprisoned for failing to answer a summons but people are quite frequently arrested and fined.

Chris

[Rollo]

Better for you to turn up at the court and then tell them you don't want to give evidence.

See what they say.

At least you have answered the summons.

[New Judge]

Or better still, turn up, take the oath and then say you cannot recall any of the events you are asked about.

Before the trial begins it may be worth suggesting to the prosecuting advocate (or the defence if you are giving evidence on their behalf) that your memory has failed you . It is unlikely that you will then be called, but you will have answered your summons and so cannot be prosecuted.

[Rollo]

"Or better still, turn up, take the oath and then say you cannot recall any of the events you are asked about."

Even if that is a lie?

Ho ho ho. I think not.