The California legal system can feel unforgiving, especially when missing a court date—even for a minor charge—can lead to significant penalties. This article covers everything you need to know about Failure to Appear (FTA) charges in California, including:
In California, a “Failure to Appear” occurs when someone misses a required court appearance. Failing to show up can lead to an FTA charge, an arrest warrant, and additional fines. Depending on the original charge, FTAs can escalate from minor to major legal issues.
Yes, failing to appear can lead to steep fines and even jail time. For misdemeanour, an FTA can add up to six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine. If the original charge was a felony, missing court could add a separate felony charge, with penalties of up to three years in state prison and a $5,000 to $10,000 fine, depending on release terms. FTAs also count as probation violations, which can bar future expungement efforts, making it difficult to clear your record.
Yes, a bench warrant is almost always issued for any FTA, leading to the possibility of arrest at any time.
Attorney Don Matson is a compassionate California criminal defense lawyer who has helped countless clients just like you avoid falling victim to the legal justice system’s many traps. With over 20 years of experience, Don has accumulated an exceptional reputation for considerate and powerful criminal defense representation.
Are you afraid you will not be able to make a court date? Did you miss one already? Better call Don today to schedule an initial consultation.
An FTA doesn’t automatically add new charges, but it is taken seriously by judges – both in Los Angeles and across the state of California. An FTA can result in additional misdemeanour or felony charges, depending on the original charge.
Missed court dates aren’t the only way minor charges can spiral into major legal challenges. Consider this case: One of our former clients discovered she had multiple old arrest warrants during her citizenship background check. Years before, she’d hired a lawyer who assured her everything was “taken care of,” but it wasn’t true. As a result, our firm had to address each warrant individually, appearing in court to resolve each case that had been brought against her. Fortunately, we achieved two outright dismissals and one dismissal with minimal community service—far better outcomes than expected.
For more information on Failure To Appear Charges In California, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (626) 600-3437 today.
Attorney Don Matson is a compassionate California criminal defense lawyer who has helped countless clients just like you avoid falling victim to the legal justice system’s many traps. With over 20 years of experience, Don has accumulated an exceptional reputation for considerate and powerful criminal defense representation.
Are you afraid you will not be able to make a court date? Did you miss one already? Better call Don today to schedule an initial consultation.
