What to do with a missed court date!?

Question

i just realized my girlfriend had a court date about a week ago and failed to show up. the ticket was for running a stop sign, she plans to call tomorrow morning to straighten things out but i just wanted to know what is the worst that can happen?

Answer 1

In Georgia, If she went to recorders courtm then it would be bound up to state.

but normaly you can pay a fee no more an $100.00 and get a new court date.

Answer 2

I can only assume that your girlfriend is contesting a ticket, considering she is going to court for a stop sign matter.

If this is the case then MHnurseC is spot on.

If she has failed to turn up for a hearing relating to a contested traffic ticket, the Magistrate will find her guilty in her absence and she will be fined the original amount for the infringement plus court costs.  I don't know where you are from but in Queensland the court cost will be about $70.00, plus $225.00 for the stop sign.

Having said that I would get onto the Court ASAP and clear it up.

Cheers

Shano

Answer 3

If she asked for the hearing as a result of a traffic citation and missed the court date, then a verdict of guilty was entered on her behalf and she will forfeit the money for the fine and the courtcosts that she submitted.

Worse, any points that this violation carries will be added to her license as well.

Answer 4

SHE WILL GET ANOTHER COURT DATE IF SHE CONTEST THE TICKET. IF NOT SHE CAN JUST PAY IT.

Answer 5

The worst that can happen is that they issue a bench warrant for her arrest. I'm sure that it was a honest mistake but sometimes to the courts they don't see it that way.

Be sure that she calls the clerk of courts directly and find out if there is a warrant out for her arrest and see if she is able to go to court on the next day . Good Luck to your girlfriend.