Missing a Court Date on Bail
Anyone who bails out of jail must attend every court date that’s scheduled. It’s a mandatory condition of release.
You always want to avoid missing a court date. But, what if something unexpected happens that prevents your appearance?
Did you or your child get sick at the last minute? Were you hurt in a car accident? Did you mix up the dates and discover your court date passed?
Keep reading to learn what happens when you fail to appear in court while out on bail.
Call Your Lawyer
Contact your attorney right away if you miss court. Sometimes, your lawyer can get your case rescheduled.
It’s only possible if you know ahead of time that you can’t make your court date. The court won’t issue a warrant when you reschedule.
If you already missed your appearance the lawyer must contact the court to get your case back on the calendar.
Sometimes, a lawyer can get a warrant recalled or put on hold until the new hearing date. This means that it’s possible for you to avoid arrest for missing court.
Later, when you appear in court, the judge can quash the warrant.
Contact Your Bail Bonds Agency
Always notify your bail bonds agency when you miss a court date. Let them know that your attorney rescheduled it.
Rescheduling reduces the chance of the bail bonds company revoking your bail. If you notify them, they may not come after you.
Revoked bail means you go to jail. Expect the company to revoke your bail if you miss a court date more than once.
Arrest Warrant for Missing a Court Date
When you fail to appear in court, the judge issues a bench warrant. If you encounter the police and they run your name, the warrant appears and the officer can arrest you on the spot.
The arrest warrant voids your bail. The only way to clear a bench warrant is to appear before a judge. You must wait in jail until your court appearance.
When a judge issues a bench warrant, the bail bonds agency can remand you into custody. If this happens, you’ll go to jail.
The Judge Determines the Consequences
The judge decides what happens to you after you miss a court date.
When you appear in court after your previous failure to appear, the judge can do three things:
- Release you back out on bond
- Increase your bond amount
- Revoke your bond
If you miss more than one court date, the judge may consider you a flight risk. Judges are more strict with someone who misses several court dates.
Get Fast Bail Bonds Help in Raleigh
Sometimes, you can’t avoid missing a court date. If you do, make sure you appear for your rescheduled date.
When you’re out on bail, follow all the conditions set by the courts and bail bonds company. It’s the best route to a good resolution of your case.
If you or a loved one gets arrested in Wake County, contact Absolute Bail Bonding right away. We’ll help you get out of jail fast.
