Victim and Witness Assistance - Witness Information

If you have been served a subpoena and have questions regarding the status of the case in which you are involved, please check to see when your attendance is required by contacting the victim/witness unit at 616-808-2034.

Witnesses who appear on behalf of the United States government are entitled to an attendance fee and reimbursement of certain related travel expenses. Generally, a witness is entitled to a $40.00 appearance fee for each day's attendance and reimbursement of travel by the least expensive method reasonably available. Witnesses should contact the Victim-Witness Unit at 616-808-2034, for further information regarding travel regulations.

A witness subpoenaed to court may be asked to wait for a period of time before being called to testify. For this reason, it is a good idea to bring some reading material to occupy waiting time.

It is a Federal offense to threaten, intimidate, harass or mislead a witness in a criminal proceeding. If you are a witness and are being threatened or feel that you are being harassed because of your connection to the case, you should immediately notify the federal law enforcement agency conducting the investigation or the United States Attorney's office. In emergency situations, always contact your local law enforcement (911) first.

Court Location Information:

YOU WILL BE ASKED TO PRESENT A PHOTO IDENTIFICATION TO ENTER THE COURTHOUSE, AND CELLULAR PHONES ARE NOT PERMITTED INSIDE.