Should I contact a victim, witness, or co-defendant?

Defendants are often ordered not to have contact with a victim, witness, or co-defendant in the case. That includes third-party contact, meaning it is a violation of his or her release conditions for the defendant to pass messages to those people through you or someone else. If you contact those people, it may look like the defendant asked you to even if he or she did not.

In addition, it is illegal to tamper with witnesses. If you speak to a victim, witness, or co-defendant it may appear that you are trying to influence them and you may get into trouble yourself.

Show All Answers

1. Should I discuss the alleged crime with the defendant?
2. Should I contact a victim, witness, or co-defendant?
3. Should I send letters directly to the judge or prosecutor?
4. Can I talk to the attorney?
5. What if I or a loved one am a victim?
6. How do I post bond?
7. What is a third party?
8. What about jail visitation?
9. What happens at a hearing?