What Will Happen if I Ignore a Traffic Ticket in California?

Every day in the U.S., police officers issue thousands of traffic tickets. Everybody has the duty to pay their fines in a timely manner or appear in court as established on the ticket. Failure to comply with these rules can lead to several consequences. Our Ventura and Santa Barbara traffic ticket attorneys can help you. We have the experience, knowledge, and skill to answer all of your questions and help you avoid problems with justice.

To learn more about what happens when you ignore a traffic ticket from one of our skilled Ventura criminal defense lawyers, keep reading.

What Are the Consequences of Ignoring My Traffic Tickets?

Getting a traffic ticket from the police may seem trivial and something you can sweep under the rug. However, traffic infractions are not to be taken lightly. If you ever receive a ticket from the police, you must do everything in your power to pay the fine imposed. Many people fail to realize that ignoring their traffic tickets can lead to several consequences. Furthermore, many people decide to ignore their tickets altogether thinking they will happily go on with their lives. However, the courts will make sure you don’t forget to pay any existing tickets ever again.

Different situations may lead the court to believe there is “just cause” for you to miss paying your ticket(s). For instance, the court can reduce the amount of your fine if you can show you could not pay your traffic ticket due to financial hardship. Additionally, the court may grant you a payment plan or require you to go through community service. While this is not the norm in terms of court decisions, it is a possibility.

What Happens If I Don’t Pay My Ticket?

If you are unable to show just cause for not paying your ticket on time, the court may impose several penalties. For instance, if you cannot give sufficient reason to the court, you may have your driver’s license suspended. Furthermore, you may be required to renew your vehicle’s registration and face a $300 fine on top of what you owe. As you can see, your debt can increase – double or triple – if you don’t pay on time.

You may be inclined to believe fines are the only penalties that can be imposed on you. In addition to additional penalties, the court may also issue a warrant for your arrest. In other words, not paying your ticket can allow the court to order your arrest and charge you with a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction will be registered in your criminal record. This can create a wide range of difficulties moving forward, including finding a job, qualifying for a loan, or applying for housing.

What Happens If I Don’t Show Up at a Court Hearing?

Whenever you’re a pulled over by the police due to a traffic violation, you will need to sign your ticket. Your signature is interpreted as consent to appear on the court as established in your ticket. You must do everything in your power to show up to your hearing and meet all requirements set forth by law.

Failure to appear (FTA) is a direct violation of a court order. Furthermore, it would be a violation you signed up for the moment you received your traffic ticket. If you miss your day in court without cause, you may face additional fines, the court may find you guilty, and issue a warrant for your arrest. All these problems can be avoided if you either give the court just cause for missing your appointment or if you pay off your fine.

A skilled, dedicated, and experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand the risks associated with ignoring your traffic ticket.

How Can a Traffic Ticket Lawyer Help Me?

You can get a traffic ticket for numerous reasons and in different scenarios. Not all infractions require the assistance of a traffic ticket lawyer. Some of the situations where you may need the help of a traffic lawyer include speeding tickets, driving uninsured, DUI, driving with an expired license, not paying your tickets, and other traffic violations. Your lawyer can guide you through the process and help you avoid potential problems.

Traffic Ticket Lawyer Offering Free Consultations in Ventura and Santa Barbara

If you or a loved one has ignored their traffic ticket, they can get in trouble with justice. In such a situation, you need skilled legal representation by your side. Our knowledgeable and experienced attorneys can help you understand the implications of missing your day in court and represent your interests every step of the way. Turn to The Law Offices of Bamieh & de Smeth PLC, for high-quality legal representation. To learn more about your case in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (805) 643-5555.