We are the victims of a theft the person has been charged with three counts of Felony Theft he was offered a plea and originally had accep...

Question

We are the victims of a theft; the person has been charged with three counts of Felony Theft; he was offered a plea and originally had accepted the plea and has now backed out of the plea and asked for a jury trial. We have been told we will be subpeaoned to appear in court against this person. We will have to take a day off from work and drive 150 miles to appear in court. Does someone pay our lost wages and travel expenses? What are his chances in a jury trial? This is in Minnesota.

Answer

I suggest you simply review a sample subpoena form as such detail is included. I suggest you may want to speak with your victim's advocate should one be available. You have the right to be represented by an attorney yourself. 'Chances' with a jury trial depend upon the full facts and issues, and surprise verdicts sometimes occur, and settlement prior to the jury verdict sometimes occurs, too. Tricia Dwyer Esq ph 612-296-9666 Tricia Dwyer Esq & Assoc PLLC Minnesota Crime Victim - Witness Attorneys, Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorneys

Answer

Without knowing anything about the case or evidence it is impossible to assess the likely result of a jury trial. WItnesses can be compensated for their time in court, but the compensation is fairly minimal .