does a subpoena mean you have to testify
A summons is bad, that means you are the respondent in a case i.e. the defendant. A subpoena means you are just a witness. You cannot usually get in trouble, unless you lie or do not show up in Court, or refuse to testify. raviet31 Â· 8 years ago.
If you have been subpoenaed to testify at a legal proceeding, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney, especially if you think your testimony may incriminate you. A lawyer can protect your rights and help you file an objection to the subpoena if there are legal grounds for doing so.