I've been Subpoened!

[Iplayboard]

This is in regards to a case of armed robbery in which I was the victim.

My question is why does the state have to send me a letter saying they will arrest me if I don't show up? Is this just a formality? Seeing as how I am the victim isn't there a more diplomatic way to do this?

Also, is there any instance in which the victim can legally refuse to testify? I don't have a problem personally with testifying (other than the fact that I'll have to stick around for about an extra week after my finals) but I can definitely see some instances in which the victim might not want to. It just seems absurd to me that someone could potenially be arrested for refusing to talk about a case in which THEY were they victim of a crime.

Thanks for the input.