Why might a witness receive a fine?

A witness may receive a fine for failing to obey a subpoena because subpoenas are legal documents that compel an individual to appear in court or produce evidence. When a witness does not comply with a subpoena, it demonstrates a disregard for the court's authority and the legal process. Courts have the power to impose penalties, including fines, on witnesses who fail to fulfill their legal obligations under a subpoena, ensuring that the integrity of the judicial process is maintained.

Other options, although they relate to potential legal consequences for a witness, do not specifically pertain to fines in the same manner. Providing false information can lead to more severe consequences, such as perjury charges, while being late to a court hearing might result in a different form of sanction, such as a warning or contempt of court. Refusing to answer questions could also lead to contempt charges. Each of these situations is handled differently in the context of legal proceedings, focusing on the obligations established by the court for witnesses.