Can my mother be forced to testify against me in court?

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Can my mother be forced to testify against me in court?

I am 17 years old. The first time I was arrested was for speeding and possession; the second time was for a curfew violation and providing false information to the officer (I lied about my name).

Asked on January 8, 2015 under Criminal Law, Virginia

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 9 years ago | Contributor

Parent's can be made to testify against their children. There is no legal priviledge in this situation as there exists in some other circumstances (i.e. for a spouse not being made to testify against the other spouse). Accordingly, unless testifying will also incriminate your mother in some way (she can then "plead the 5th), she  will have to appear in court or else she could be held in contempt and subject to penalties (including fines and jail time). At this point, you should consult with your attorney about your defense if you have not already done so.


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