What Are The Consequences Of Missing Court?
Being out on bailbonds in Phoenix, Arizona is a privilege that allows defendants to remain free while awaiting trial. However, missing a court date can result in serious legal consequences, from the issuance of a bench warrant to a potential re-arrest. If you or a loved one has missed a scheduled court appearance, understanding what happens next and how to handle the situation legally is critical.
In this blog, we’ll explore the consequences of missing court, what to expect with bench warrants and re-arrests, and how to handle a missed court date legally. We’ll also highlight why Harris Bail Bonds is your best choice for securing a bail bondsman in Phoenix, Arizona when dealing with missed court appearances.
Consequences of Missing a Court Date in Arizona
When you are released on bailbonds, one of your primary legal obligations is to attend all scheduled court hearings. If you fail to appear, it is classified as Failure to Appear (FTA), which is a serious offense under Arizona law.
1. Bench Warrants for Failure to Appear
The first consequence of missing court is the immediate issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest. A judge will order law enforcement to take you into custody, which could happen at your home, workplace, or during a routine traffic stop.
✔ Immediate Warrant Issuance – Once the judge determines you have failed to appear, a bench warrant is issued. ✔ Risk of Re-Arrest – Law enforcement officers can arrest you at any time. ✔ Added Criminal Charges – Failure to Appear may result in additional charges and penalties. ✔ Revocation of Bailbonds – Your bail bondsman may revoke your bond, and you may be required to remain in custody until your case is resolved.
2. Increased Bail Amount or Bond Forfeiture
If you miss court, the judge may increase your bail amount, making it harder to secure release again.
✔ Forfeiture of Bailbonds – The court may revoke or forfeit your bond, meaning your bail bondsman could lose the amount they paid on your behalf. ✔ Higher Bail Amount – If you are given another chance for bail, the amount will likely be much higher due to the risk you pose. ✔ Loss of Collateral – If you or a cosigner used collateral to secure the original bail, the court may seize those assets.
3. Additional Criminal Penalties
Under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 13-2506, Failure to Appear can lead to additional criminal charges.
✔ Misdemeanor or Felony Charge – The severity depends on the original charge:
- If you were facing a misdemeanor, FTA could result in an additional misdemeanor charge.
- If you were out on bail for a felony, missing court can lead to a felony Failure to Appear charge. ✔ Fines & Additional Jail Time – Missing court can add months or years to your potential sentence. ✔ License Suspension– The state may suspend your driver’s license until the matter is resolved.
Bench Warrants and Re-Arrests in Arizona
Once a bench warrant is issued for your arrest, law enforcement has the authority to take you into custody at any time. Understanding how warrants work can help you navigate the legal process effectively.
1. How Bench Warrants Work
✔ A bench warrant authorizes law enforcement to arrest you immediately. ✔ Warrants do not expire – you can be arrested days, months, or even years after missing court. ✔ The judge may deny bail upon re-arrest, forcing you to stay in jail until trial. ✔ Warrants are entered into law enforcement databases, meaning even minor infractions (like a traffic stop) can lead to your arrest.
2. What to Expect During Re-Arrest
If you are re-arrested, you may be taken to the Maricopa County Jail or another local detention center. You will need to: ✔ Go through booking and processing again. ✔ Potentially face harsher bail conditions or no bail at all. ✔ Be required to attend a hearing to explain your Failure to Appear.
3. Can You Avoid Immediate Arrest?
Yes. If you act quickly, you may be able to resolve your bench warrant before being taken into custody.
✔ Contact Harris Bail Bonds – Your bail bondsman can help you understand your options. ✔ Turn Yourself in Voluntarily – Judges often consider voluntary surrender a sign of good faith and may reinstate bail. ✔ File a Motion to Quash the Warrant – Your attorney can request the court to remove the warrant, explaining why you missed court. ✔ Attend a Walk-In Court Session – Some courts allow defendants to address their missed court dates without immediate arrest.
How to Handle a Missed Court Date Legally
Missing court is serious, but taking the right steps can help minimize the damage. Here’s how to handle it legally and responsibly.
1. Contact a Bail Bondsman Immediately
Your first step should be to contact Harris Bail Bonds in Phoenix, Arizona. Their experienced bail bondsmen can: ✔ Help determine if your bail can be reinstated. ✔ Guide you on how to turn yourself in safely. ✔ Assist in filing motions to reduce penalties. ✔ Provide financial support for a new bond, if needed.
2. Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
A lawyer can help negotiate with the court to reinstate your bail and avoid harsher penalties. They can: ✔ File a motion to quash the warrant. ✔ Argue that the FTA was unintentional due to medical emergencies or unavoidable conflicts. ✔ Work with the bail bondsman to secure your release again.
3. Appear in Court as Soon as Possible
The longer you wait, the worse the consequences can be. Show up to court voluntarily and be ready to: ✔ Apologize to the judge and explain your absence. ✔ Show proof of why you missed your court date (if applicable). ✔ Work with your attorney and Harris Bail Bonds to reinstate your bail.
Why Choose Harris Bail Bonds in Phoenix, Arizona?
When facing a missed court date and potential re-arrest, you need a trusted bail bondsman on your side. Here’s why Harris Bail Bonds is the best choice in Phoenix, Arizona:
✔ Fast & Reliable Service – Available 24/7 to assist with bailbonds for missed court dates. ✔ Expert Legal Guidance– Our bail bondsmen have extensive knowledge of Arizona’s legal system. ✔ Affordable Payment Plans – We offer flexible bail bond financing options to ease financial strain. ✔ Discreet & Professional – We handle every case with confidentiality and respect. ✔ Decades of Experience – Trusted in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding areas for years.
Final Thoughts: Act Fast to Protect Your Freedom
If you’ve missed a court date while out on bailbonds, don’t panic—but do act quickly. The sooner you address the issue, the better your chances of avoiding severe consequences.
📞 Need help reinstating bail or handling a bench warrant? Contact Harris Bail Bonds in Phoenix, Arizona today!
