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1. Why am I a witness? I didn't see the crime occur.

Witnesses are not only "eye witnesses." You may have seen the crime happen or may know something about it. You may also know something about a piece of evidence, or may know something that contradicts another witness's testimony. If you wonder why you are testifying in a particular case, ask the prosecutor handling it; there is probably a common-sense reason.

2. Where do I park as a witness in a criminal case?

You can park in the Snohomish County Parking Garage. Advise them that you are a witness and they will provide you with a parking pass. Prior to or after your testimony bring the pass to our office and we will validate it. If you leave without getting your pass validated, you will be charged for parking and we are not able to reimburse you for the parking cost.

3. As a witness, do I have to talk in front of the defendant in court?

Yes. The defendant has a constitutional right to be present in court to hear what all the witnesses say.

4. Who will be with me in court?

You may bring friends or relatives with you to court, and they can probably sit in the courtroom while you testify, unless they are also witnesses. Witnesses testify one at a time and generally wait outside the courtroom for their turn. In some cases, a Victim / Witness Advocate from our office may also be with you, if so you request. Talk with the prosecutor about that.

5. How long will I be at court as a witness?

Your time at court varies greatly from case to case. Some witnesses will be at the courthouse for more than a day. You are encouraged to bring a book or magazine to read while you wait.

6. What do I do if I can't attend court as a witness on the date stated in the subpoena?

We try to accommodate witnesses’ schedules as much as possible, however it is the court that determines when a case goes to trial. Contact the deputy prosecutor on the case or his/her legal assistant with your scheduling conflict. You should receive a letter with your subpoena with this contact information.

7. Does the county reimburse me for wages lost when I am a witness?

You will receive a witness fee and mileage for appearing as a witness if there is a trial. The amount of the witness fee and mileage is set by law, and there is no provision to compensate for loss of wages. Paying a witness's lost wages would require a tax increase to put enough money in the county's budget.