How Often Do Police Officers Have to Testify in Various Law Enforcement Assignments?

Law enforcement officers often find themselves facing the demands of court appearances. The frequency of these testimonies can vary greatly depending on their specific role and jurisdiction. This article discusses the common experiences of police officers in different assignments and jurisdictions, highlighting how their court appearances can impact their careers.

The Frequency of Court Appearances in Different Jursidictions

For those serving in municipal courts from September to May, court days typically consist of two sessions per week in the evenings and one session in the morning. In the summer months (June to August), the frequency drops to one morning session per week. Due to the rigorous court schedule, police officers often end up in court every 2-3 weeks.

"Police officers may start their day at 6 AM and be called back to the station again for court around 10 AM, with the expectation of completing their testimony by the end of the session. This tight schedule leaves little time for rest, and the experience can vary from being reliable and meaningful, such as in cases like DUIs, to the more tedious and repetitive like domestic disputes.

Varied Experiences Across Assignments

Mark Tartes highlights how the frequency of court appearances can vary significantly depending on the assignment. In the early stages of a law enforcement career, most officers testifying involved warrantless arrests and traffic offenses, which were usually set for a PC hearing. On certain days, such as Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, practical tasks like DUI cases and traffic court appearances were frequent. This duty to testify was seen as a task worth the overtime, contributing to personal and professional growth.

However, as the career progresses, the frequency of court appearances can reduce. For instance, officers specialized in detective work, juvenile court, and school resource officer positions often testified more regularly, sometimes on a monthly or biweekly basis. Conversely, officers in training or intelligence assignments, such as those in gangs and narcotics, were less likely to appear in court, as their focus was on gathering intelligence and conducting warrants.

Throughout eighteen years of active law enforcement, the article's author managed to testify between 100-200 times, predominantly in preliminary hearings or bench trials. While some cases were highly significant, many were resolved without going to trial. The author did have a rare experience of a jury trial six years into their career, which involved a DUI case. Additionally, they testified in a series of DUI cases a year later. These experiences were mainly related to misdemeanor or traffic cases, with only three instances of appearing in Superior Court for felony cases.

Conclusion

The frequency of court appearances for police officers depends on various factors, including the jurisdiction, the assignment, and the nature of the cases. From monthly or biweekly appearances in DUI and traffic cases to less frequent appearances in training and intelligence roles, this variability underscores the diverse responsibilities and experiences of law enforcement professionals. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for both officers and the public to appreciate the critical role of testimony in the justice system.