What happens if I miss my traffic court date?
Missing a traffic court date (failure to appear, or FTA) typically results in: (1) a bench warrant issued for your arrest, (2) an additional FTA fine added to your ticket, (3) licence suspension in most states, and (4) possible referral to collections. Contact the court immediately to address an FTA.
Will I be arrested for missing a traffic ticket court date?
For minor traffic infractions, immediate arrest is unlikely but possible — a bench warrant is issued which means you can be arrested during any police encounter. For misdemeanor traffic violations (DUI, reckless driving), the risk of arrest is higher. The longer you wait to address the FTA, the greater the risk.
How do I clear a bench warrant for a traffic ticket?
Options include: (1) contacting the court and requesting a new court date, (2) hiring a traffic attorney to appear on your behalf in some jurisdictions, (3) voluntarily turning yourself in at the courthouse (often results in the warrant being lifted without jail). Do not ignore a bench warrant — it won't go away on its own.
How does failure to appear affect my driver's licence?
Most states suspend your driver's licence for failure to appear on a traffic ticket. California adds a $300 civil assessment plus the original fine. Your licence remains suspended until all amounts are paid and a reinstatement fee is paid. Driving on a suspended licence adds additional criminal charges.
Can a traffic lawyer help with failure to appear?
Yes. A traffic attorney can often appear in court on your behalf, get the FTA charge withdrawn, negotiate a reduction in fines, and resolve the underlying ticket. This is often less expensive than paying all FTA penalties and can prevent a licence suspension.