Table of Contents
What happens if you ignore a Senate subpoena?
Under this statute the wrongful refusal to comply with a congressional subpoena is made punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. A committee may vote to seek a contempt citation against a recalcitrant witness.
Can you refuse a subpoena from Congress?
In modern times, contempt of Congress has generally applied to the refusal to comply with a subpoena issued by a congressional committee or subcommittee—usually seeking to compel either testimony or the production of requested documents.
What happens if you disobey a subpoena?
Failure to respond to a subpoena is punishable as contempt by either the court or agency issuing the subpoena. In such cases, the outcome is more likely to be an order to produce, coupled with an award of attorneys’ fees to the party that had to initiate the contempt proceedings.
What happens if someone does not comply with a subpoena?
When you receive a subpoena, you either have to comply with its terms or challenge it through a legal process. If you fail to respond, you’ll be in contempt of court, which is punishable by jail time, a hefty fine, or both.
When can you ignore a subpoena?
Don’t just ignore the subpoena. In cases where you don’t possess requested documents or you believe those documents fall under privilege, the court or agency can hold a hearing to determine how to proceed with your subpoena and the requested documents. In any event, do not simply ignore a subpoena.
Do you have to obey a subpoena?
Because a subpoena is a court-ordered command, a person who fails to obey it is subject to civil or criminal contempt of court charges. Criminal contempt can also include refusal to turn over documents or other data.
What happens if someone ignores a subpoena?
What happens if you refuse a subpoena?
Failure to respond to a subpoena is punishable as contempt by either the court or agency issuing the subpoena. Punishment may include monetary sanctions (even imprisonment although extremely unlikely).