IANAL - but I don't think your first paragraph is accurate. I agree completely with your second paragraph. Let's say Sally is suing Joe for wrecking her car.

IANAL - but I don't think your first paragraph is accurate. I agree completely with your second paragraph. Let's say Sally is suing Joe for wrecking her car. I was driving Joe's car, and I fled the scene of the accident. I'm subpoenaed in the civil matter to come testify for Sally to say what Joe did. I'm pretty sure that you can tell the judge you refuse to answer due to 5th amendment right. Source: I did this once in a federal civil suit (no vehicles involved)