Pubdate: Tue, 13 Apr 2004
Source: Chronicle-Journal, The (CN ON)
Contact:  2004 The Chronicle-Journal
Website: http://www.chroniclejournal.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3155
Section: LegalSpeak, Les Vandor

NEIGHBOURS MAKE LIFE DIFFICULT FOR WITNESS

Q: In the mid-'90s, my husband was subpoenaed to appear in court to
testify against a co-worker who was caught on video taking drugs on
the job. Our lives have been pure hell ever since. Neighbours cross
the street when they see him. Our car was recently vandalized and no
one at work speaks to him. Is there are recourse open to us?

A: I can only imagine the pain that this has caused. There is little
you can do when neighbours shun you for doing what was not only right
but what had to be done under the compulsion of a subpoena. Because
you were subpoenaed you can't sue the justice system and because your
evidence was required you can't sue the lawyer that issued the
subpoena. You can ask for a transfer if there is a suitable other job.
You can't sue your neighbours since that in and of itself would
exacerbate the problem. If you find out who vandalized your van, you
could sue them for the cost of repairs. The only glimmer may be to
take a retirement package and move to a more open and friendly
community even if it means giving up your roots. I hope that this all
can be put behind you in time.

Les Vandor is a lawyer and author of the Legal Counsel Series of
books. Send questions to  These answers serve
as a guide and you are encouraged to consult a lawyer. We regret that
not all questions can be answered.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin