A subpoena is a court order directing you to be present at the time and place stated. Once you are served with a subpoena, you are obligated to appear. Failure to appear may be understood as contempt of court by the judge, and may result in dismissal of the criminal charges, so it is very important that you inform the Prosecutor if you cannot appear as directed. Indiana law makes no provision for reimbursement of expenses other than mileage to witnesses for court appearances at a criminal trial. The key to any successful prosecution in a criminal case is careful preparation by witnesses, and a thorough investigation by the law enforcement agency.
Adequate documentation is essential.
The Court may exclude from the trial any evidence where the defendant is not notified before trial of its existence. You are under no obligation to speak with the defendant, his attorney or his investigator before trial. That is entirely up to you. Any effort to do so should be reported to the Prosecutor immediately. In any event, you may be required to give a deposition, where you will provide sworn testimony and answer questions outside the courtroom in the presence of the Prosecutor, the Defense Attorney, and a stenographer.