FAQs • Lima, OH • CivicEngage

I received my subpoena after the court date, what do I do?: Due to the high volume of cases we handle, inclement weather, problems with your mail service, etc. subpoenas may arrive late on some occasions. You will not be held responsible for any failure to receive a subpoena that was beyond your control. If you would like to know what happened with the case, you may check on the status of the case at any time by visiting Lima Municipal Court. If the case was continued to another date when you are unavailable, please contact the prosecutor’s office.

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Questions about Subpoena

1. I received a subpoena and I can not make the upcoming court date, what do I do?: You need to contact the prosecutor handling the case as soon as possible. (419) 221-5234 be sure to have you subpoena available so that you may reference the case number at the top of the page. Please leave a message if your call is not answered and include the case number, your name and phone number as well as the reason you are unable to appear on the specified date and time.

2. What happens if I do not come to court?: Failure to appear at the time and place indicated on your subpoena may result in your being held in contempt of court. A warrant for your arrest will be issued and, upon your arrest, a hearing will be scheduled for you to appear before the judge and explain why you did not appear. If you are found to be in contempt of court, you can face jail time and/or a fine

3. I received my subpoena after the court date, what do I do?: Due to the high volume of cases we handle, inclement weather, problems with your mail service, etc. subpoenas may arrive late on some occasions. You will not be held responsible for any failure to receive a subpoena that was beyond your control. If you would like to know what happened with the case, you may check on the status of the case at any time by visiting Lima Municipal Court. If the case was continued to another date when you are unavailable, please contact the prosecutor’s office.

4. Do I need to bring anything with me to Court?: This is very case specific. The prosecutor assigned to your case will request any necessary information from you. However, let them know about any evidence you have obtained on your own such as photographs, damage estimates, etc.

5. What if I want to drop the charge?: First of all, please be aware of the fact that you are a witness for the prosecution. Even though you are the person who suffered as a result of the crime, the case is “State of Ohio or City of Lima vs (Name of Defendant).” The prosecutor is responsible for making decisions about all cases.
The City Prosecutor's office does not dismiss charges solely upon your request. This doesn’t mean that they do not need your input, but it does mean that either the prosecutor or the judge will make the final decision about the case