Missing a scheduled court appearance for a traffic violation, misdemeanor, other offense or a civil court case may not initially seem likely to have severe consequences. Some Central Florida courts and law enforcement agencies are often overloaded, and it may be tempting to hope that your failure to appear will "slip through the cracks."
Missing Court Often Leads to an Arrest Warrant and Revocation of Bail
Escaping punishment is very unlikely, the risk of failing to appear in court is serious, and it is important to recognize that you could:
- Face a new, additional criminal charge punishable by large fines and even jail time when considered alongside the original charge or past convictions
- Have a bench warrant issued by the judge for your arrest, very possibly leading to your being taken into police custody in front of family or co-workers
- Be punished with revocation of your bond status and be labeled a "flight risk" without any constitutional right to release on bail of any amount
- Face more vigorous prosecution on the original offense than you might have otherwise, such as having a prosecutor seek a harsher sentence or refuse to plea bargain your case
Whatever the original charge against you, from reckless driving or DUI to a domestic violence or weapons charge, making your scheduled court appearance — ideally with a well-prepared defense attorney such as N. Ryan LaBar on your side — is very important. But we also realize that people make mistakes under stress and you may have a valid, unavoidable reason for missing court. You can turn to our firm for zealous, resourceful representation.
Contact an Experienced Orlando Defense Lawyer Now: 866-680-4LAW
If you have missed a court appearance or learned about a warrant out on you for some other reason, it is critical to act now.
We urge you to get counsel from an attorney who has extensive, relevant experience in that specific court and therefore knows all options and strategies for dealing with this problem. At LaBar Adams, we have these attributes along with a reputation in area courts for criminal defense work with integrity.
