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Contact Information

State's Attorney's Office:
Phone:  240-313-2000
Fax:  240-313-2001

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Victim/Witness Assistance

• Court Process
• Day of Trial
• Victim Resources
• Victim/Witness Contact Info

 

 

DAY OF TRIAL

The trial may not start as early as scheduled.  Victims and witnesses will be questioned by the prosecutor, and then the defense attorney will have the opportunity to "cross examine" them. The defense attorney must protect his client's rights and this may involve closely scrutinizing the testimony. Victims and witnesses should not let the defense attorney's questions upset them. They should remain calm and answer the questions as best they can.

Please dress appropriately for court.  You WILL NOT be permitted in the court room wearing shorts, hat (except for religious reasons), sandals, undershirts, tank tops, and halter-tops. Items such as food, beverages, radios, recorders, cameras or weapons are not allowed in the courthouse.  No camera cell phones will be permitted.

SUGGESTIONS TO VICTIMS AND WITNESSES

• Testify honestly and completely.

• Try to recall information accurately in your mind before testifying.
• Speak loudly and clearly.  Do not answer with a nod for “yes” or “no”. 

• Dress appropriately for court.
• Immediately stop speaking when the judge interrupts you or an attorney makes an objection.
• Do not argue with a lawyer.  Treat both lawyers and the judge with courtesy and respect.

• In order to achieve a positive outcome, you must cooperate with the police, prosecutor and Victim Assistant.

• Be sure the prosecutor and Victim Assistant are aware of your expectations and concerns regarding the case.

• Be sure that the Victim Assistant has your daytime telephone number.  Immediately notify us of any address or telephone change.

• Please wait your turn to speak in the courtroom.  DO NOT yell out or talk with others while court is in session

• Remember to stand when addressing the court.
• Cell phones are not permitted inside the court houses. 

CHILDREN

Children are not permitted in the courtroom; unless subpoenaed to testify.  We understand the fears and anxieties a court room can be for young children and take great effort in alleviating to ease those fears.  

EMPLOYER INTERCESSION

Coming to court to testify as a State's witness is both a civic duty and a legal obligation. If your employer needs any assistance from us regarding your status as a State's witness, please let us know.

 

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Page Modified11/19/09 11:24 AM