My boyfriend assaulted me. I do not want to testify. Not because I don't want to testify against him, but because I was nude, had been drinking, was on medication for PTSD for an accident and, after watching a recent rape trial in Aspen, I know they will use all of this to tear me apart on the stand. I've asked them to make a plea, my boyfriend sought all kinds of treatment (none of which he can get since he's in jail), but they don't care.
He doesn't remember the incident, and I only remember it in pieces. At this point, I'm wondering if I remember any of it correctly. The thought of testifying is ruining my life. I've been served a subpoena in spite of the fact I have begged the DA to go forward with out me, and to make the case without me.
When they start ripping into me on the stand, can I ask the relevance? Can I refuse to answer? What are my rights? The trial will be all about me, and nothing about him will even be brought up. Can someone please tell me what I can and cannot do? They are not allowed to bring up any of his past transgressions and don't need to say a word about him, but if I don't put myself out there I can go to jail.
He doesn't remember the incident, and I only remember it in pieces. At this point, I'm wondering if I remember any of it correctly. The thought of testifying is ruining my life. I've been served a subpoena in spite of the fact I have begged the DA to go forward with out me, and to make the case without me.
When they start ripping into me on the stand, can I ask the relevance? Can I refuse to answer? What are my rights? The trial will be all about me, and nothing about him will even be brought up. Can someone please tell me what I can and cannot do? They are not allowed to bring up any of his past transgressions and don't need to say a word about him, but if I don't put myself out there I can go to jail.