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Johnny Depp Won't Testify in Murder Trial After All

By Jenny Tsay, Esq. on April 25, 2014 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

In case you missed it: Johnny Depp was subpoenaed to testify in a murder trial, but it looks like he's off the hook.

Depp was originally subpoenaed to testify to support the defendant's insanity defense. Nancy Lekon, the woman on trial for murder, claimed she was in a relationship with the actor when she had no connection to Depp, according to TMZ.

Now Depp won't have to testify after the attorneys agreed to a stipulation.

What's a Stipulation?

A stipulation is an agreement between attorneys that help simplify or shorten litigation. Stipulations are done on a voluntary basis between attorneys from the opposing parties. If the stipulations are successful, then it means that the attorneys have come to an agreement about certain facts or issues and those matters are considered resolved in the court's eyes.

Stipulations can be used in various scenarios, including:

  • Dismissing or discontinuing a case;
  • To admit, exclude, or withdraw evidence;
  • Agreeing to the testimony of an absent witness and use those facts as evidence

For Depp, the stipulation between the prosecutor and defense attorney sought to prove, on the record, that he has no connection to Lekon or the murder allegations. Now that both parties agree that Depp isn't related to the case at all, he doesn't have to show up to court, according to TMZ.

Tips For Challenging a Subpoena

If you're like Depp and received a subpoena, but don't think that you need to appear in court, there are ways you can challenge the subpoena. However, don't ignore a subpoena -- it's a court order. If you don't comply with a court order, you could face fines or jail time.

After you receive the subpoena, make sure that it's intended for you. If it's not, then don't worry about showing up. The subpoena will tell you in what case you'll be testifying or producing documents. If you have any concerns that your testimony may land you in legal trouble, consult an attorney in your area. Your attorney can help you go over your testimony, make sure you avoid self-incrimination, or like Depp's attorney, get you off the hook if you have zero relation to the case.

While many women dream of being in a relationship with Depp, the attorneys have now confirmed that Lekon and Depp never were.

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