NEIGHBOURS MAKE LIFE DIFFICULT FOR WITNESS

Q: In the mid-'90s, my husband was subpoenaed to appear in court to testify against a co-worker who was caught on video taking drugs on the job.  Our lives have been pure hell ever since.  Neighbours cross the street when they see him.  Our car was recently vandalized and no one at work speaks to him.  Is there are recourse open to us?

A: I can only imagine the pain that this has caused.  There is little you can do when neighbours shun you for doing what was not only right but what had to be done under the compulsion of a subpoena.  Because you were subpoenaed you can't sue the justice system and because your evidence was required you can't sue the lawyer that issued the subpoena.  You can ask for a transfer if there is a suitable other job.  You can't sue your neighbours since that in and of itself would exacerbate the problem.  If you find out who vandalized your van, you could sue them for the cost of repairs.  The only glimmer may be to take a retirement package and move to a more open and friendly community even if it means giving up your roots.  I hope that this all can be put behind you in time.

Les Vandor is a lawyer and author of the Legal Counsel Series of books.  Send questions to legalcounsel@vandorco.ca.  These answers serve as a guide and you are encouraged to consult a lawyer.  We regret that not all questions can be answered.