Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I a witness? I didn't see a crime occur.

Witnesses are not limited to "eye witnesses." You may have seen or heard the crime happen, or you may know something about it. You may also know something about a piece of evidence, or know something that contradicts another witness' testimony.

You may not think that what you know about the case is very significant. However, small pieces of information are often required to determine what really happened. If you wonder why you are testifying in a particular case, ask the Assistant United States Attorney handling the case.

Will I have to bring anything with me?

If you need to bring anything as evidence, you will be instructed to do so in the subpoena or by the Assistant U.S. Attorney prosecuting the case.

What if the defendant's attorney or investigator ask to talk to me?

You have the right to decide whether you want to discuss the case with any attorney or investigator for either the United States or the defense. Be sure you know who you are talking to when you discuss the case. Don't be afraid to ask for identification. If you decided to speak about the case, the most important thing to remember is to tell the truth. You may set the terms for any interview, including having the prosecutor present.

What about my employer?

Many witnesses question how to approach their employer about their absence from work during testimony. If requested, we will contact your employer and outline your responsibility as a subpoenaed federal witness. Employers may not retaliate against you because of your absence.

What will happen if I fail to appear?

If you fail to appear, you may be cited for contempt of court. An arrest warrant could be issued. If you have concerns about appearing, it is important that you contact the attorney on the case or the victim-witness unit as soon as possible.

Do I have to testify in front of the defendant?

If you are testifying before the grand jury, no defendant is present. If you are testifying at a criminal trial, the defendant must be present in court to hear what all the witnesses say about him or her. The representative for the defendant is called the defense attorney, and he or she will ask you questions after the Assistant United States Attorney is done questioning you.

Who can be with me in court?

You may bring friends or relatives with you to court, and they can probably sit in court while you testify, unless they are also witnesses. A Victim-Witness Program Advocate may also be present in court with you, if you request.

What if I am threatened by the defendant or others?

Threatening a witness is a separate federal crime, and a matter which we take very seriously. However, it actually happens very rarely. In emergency situations, call the police immediately. In other instances, contact the Assistant United States Attorney or case agent assigned to the case, or contact the Victim-Witness Unit.

Will I be paid for my time spent as a witness?

You will receive a $40 witness fee for each day you are required to be in court.

You will not be reimbursed for lost wages.

Will my travel expenses be covered if I am a witness?

All legitimate travel expenses related to your testimony will be reimbursed by the government, by the least expensive method available.

If your testimony requires you to travel by plane or stay overnight, your travel will be arranged through the government travel agency and your airfare and lodging costs will be paid directly by the government. DO NOT MAKE ANY TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS UNTIL YOU HAVE SPOKEN WITH THE U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE. IF YOU MAKE YOUR OWN TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS WITHOUT CONSULTING WITH THE USAO, WE MAY BE UNABLE TO REIMBURSE YOU IN FULL FOR YOUR COSTS.

You will be reimbursed for mileage, taxi fare (or similar mode of transportation), and tolls.

You can be reimbursed up to 15% on tips for taxis.

Parking will be reimbursed only when a receipt is provided.

If two or more witnesses travel in the same privately owned vehicle, only one reimbursement for mileage will be made.

If the government requires you to stay overnight, you will also receive a standard per diem to cover your food costs. The per diem rate is:

Anchorage: $62.50 for travel days and $125 for full days

Juneau: $59.00 for travel days and $118 for full days

Fairbanks: $50.00 for travel days and $100 for full days

IF YOU TRAVEL TO COURT AND RETURN HOME THE SAME DAY, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE PER DIEM. You will be provided with a form when you testify which you will use to claim reimbursement for your expenses. You will receive payment by mail. Please contact the Victim-Witness Program staff to determine your specific entitlement under the law.

RENTAL VEHICLES ARE NOT ALLOWED AND WILL NOT BE REIMBURSED. UNUSUAL EXPENSES REQUIRE JUSTIFICATION AND ADVANCE APPROVAL.

Updated July 15, 2021