If I have missed my court date, what should I do?
When a defendant misses court, the judge will typically issue a warrant for that person’s arrest. With a knowledgeable, experienced attorney, you can probably avoid arrest and jail time.
Missing a Court Date Happens. It Should Not Cost You Your Freedom.
It is not uncommon for people to miss their court dates. Errors in schedule can occur due to court error, lapses in memory, or miscommunication. There are other circumstances when a defendant is just afraid to come to court for one reason or another and has a lapse. In most cases, so long as the situation is handled just right, all is not lost. Each court and judge is different, but a lawyer who is experienced with a particular jurisdiction will know how to help. Defendants missing court dates is not an uncommon occurrence, and lawyers deal with that situation all the time. If you missed your court date, a warrant was likely issued for your arrest.
Finding a Good Lawyer Sooner than Later will Help!
The good news is that it generally takes about 48 hours for the warrant to get into the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) if you’ve missed your court date. If you get back into court quickly, most judges do not have any problem reinstating a forfeited bond and setting aside a warrant. A good lawyer will know how to best word a reason for the missed court date to minimize the chances of having a problem. If longer than a few days have passed, the situation is more complicated, but all hope is not lost. Every lawyer has their own way of handling this difficult situation.
Many lawyers find one successful technique, and they stick with it regardless of its continued success or failure because it is comfortable and familiar. As used by Michigan’s top criminal defense lawyers, the better approach is to develop a customized plan based on the particular judge, court, offense, prosecutor, and the defendant’s circumstances. When factoring in all these complex issues and using the highly developed skills a great criminal defense attorney develops through years of experience, there is almost always a way to get the client out of a tight situation.
Get In Touch with a Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney
The most important thing to do is not to panic! Talk to your attorney as soon as possible and ask about what can be done. If your lawyer is good, they will immediately know how to handle the situation and do whatever needs to be done. If you talk to your attorney and they seem unsure about handling the missed court date, it may be time to find a new lawyer.
If you do not have a lawyer or you’re looking to hire a top criminal defense lawyer to help you deal with a warrant, or any criminal charge in Michigan, call us for a free consultation. We can make arrangements for you to be arraigned or get the warrant set aside so that you have the best chance of remaining free on bond, even if you missed your court date.
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.
We will find a way to help you and, most importantly,
we are not afraid to win!
