Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I received a subpoena to appear as a witness in a case. What should I do?
A. If you have been subpoenaed in connection with your duties or activities at the University, contact the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and General Counsel for further instructions. If you have been subpoenaed in a matter unrelated to the University, you should consult your personal legal counsel.
Q. I received a subpoena to turn over documents (a subpoena duces tecum) relating to University business. How should I respond?
A. You should not turn over documents to anyone without first consulting with the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and General Counsel. You should forward a copy of the subpoena to the OGC who will work with you to gather responsive documents and take appropriate legal action with respect to the requested documents and the subpoena.
Q. I have been contacted by a law enforcement officer or enforcing agency about University matters. What should I do?
A. When contacted by law enforcement officials, including the FBI, the police or other enforcing agencies seeking access to University records and files or requesting to interview University faculty or staff regarding University matters, you should politely inform the officer that the University will generally cooperate but only in consultation with its legal counsel. Request a copy of any subpoena or search warrant produced by the officer and contact the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and General Counsel immediately for further instructions.
Q. I am being sued. Will the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and General Counsel represent me?
A. If you are being sued in your individual capacity for activities unrelated to the University, the OGC will not represent or defend you. If you are being sued as a result of activities performed within the scope of your University employment, the University will provide protection from liability for such activities in accordance with the terms of Article VIII of the University’s Bylaws. If you receive a summons in a lawsuit that is related to activities undertaken pursuant to your employment, contact the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and General Counsel immediately so that the OGC may take appropriate action to protect the interest of the University and persons to be indemnified by the University.