Summoning witnesses (Trial)- FS

Question 1

What is a witness summons?

Answer 1

A court order requiring a person to either attend court to give evidence or to produce documents relevant to proceedings.

Question 2

When can a witness summons be used?

Answer 2

When a witness is unwilling to attend voluntarily, a party may apply for a witness summons to compel attendance or document production

Question 3

What are the consequences if a person ignores a witness summons?

Answer 3

The person may be subject to fines or even imprisonment for contempt of court.

Question 4

Compulsion of Witnesses

Answer 4

The legal power by which the court may require a witness to appear or produce evidence, even against their will, through judicial authority.

Question 5

How much notice must be given when serving a witness summons?

Answer 5

The summons must be served at least 7 days before the date the witness is required to attend.

Question 6

Who serves the witness summons?

Answer 6

The party requesting the summons is responsible for serving it on the witness within the required timeframe.

Question 7

List: Key Requirements for Valid Witness Summons

Answer 7

1. Issued by the court
   
   2. Served on the witness personally
   3. At least 7 days’ notice
   4. Specifies attendance or document production