The Subpoena: What Does It Really Mean?

Journal Article Title: The Subpoena: What Does It Really Mean?
Article Author(s): Hohns, H. Murray, P.E.
Volume: 2
Volume #: 1
Month: June
Year: 1985

Abstract:

Everyone who has done a fair amount of forensic work has learned that the ominous subpoena demand to be at a certain place, at definite time, for the giving of testimony as stated in the subpoena is not to be really feared. The demands readily can be rescheduled to suit the needs of those involved in the deposition. Forensic engineers expect to get paid for the deposition and the preparation time. Some jurisdictions provide that the party taking the deposition must pay the expert in advance for the deposition time. In that case, I graciously request and require that payment before 1 start the deposition or I simply get up and leave. The lawyers wrote the rules, thus, they can live by them. There are some variations in deposition procedures from state to state and the experienced engineer should always ask the lawyer client about the rules. Never be ashamed to ask a lawyer what you may feel is a foolish question. Lawyers ask foolish questions all day long in front of their peers and feel no shame. You can do it too.