Doesn't she have a Staff Handbook, or other clear statement of terms and conditions? This should spell out in detail what should happen.
If she can't locate one, ask her union rep.
The rules may vary from department to department, but there will be a basic CS framework.
I would have thought as an arm of government, the dept. would be keen to uphold the supremacy of the law, and allow paid time for CRIMINAL cases. Civil cases might be a different kettle of fish.