At times continuances (postponements) are unavoidable. Every effort will be made to advise you of a continuance in advance. In the event that you cannot be reached, a call to 410-887-6650 the night before trial will enable you to avoid an unnecessary trip to court.
The defendant's attorney may attempt to talk to you. You have the right to decide whether or not you want to discuss your case with him or her. If you choose to talk to the defendant's attorney, you may also request that a representative from the State's Attorney's Office be present with you during the interview.
Be sure you know to whom you are talking when you discuss your case.
Approximately two weeks prior to trial a Deputy Sheriff will deliver a witness summons to your home. You are required by law to appear on the scheduled trial date unless you have been excused by a representative of the State's Attorney's Office.
Please be assured that the Baltimore County State's Attorney's Office is committed to prosecute each defendent to the fullest extent of the law. However, a large number of defendants decide to plead guilty shortly before the trial if they are convinced that witnesses are willing to come to court and testify. If a defendant pleads guilty, there will be no trial and your testimony will not be needed.
Your appearance at the sentencing is usually not required. However, in many cases a Victim Impact Statement can be presented to the sentencing judge. If appropriate, you will be asked to complete one of these statements. After sentencing, the Victim/Witness Program will send you a letter advising you of the disposition of the case.
Revised June 15, 2004
Courthouse 