Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: bench warrant for missing court

You will not face additional charges but you are in a probation violation and bench warrant situation which could mean additional punishment for you. You need to take care of this problem as soon as possible. You will be much better off coming in front of the court voluntarily than getting caught and brought involuntarily some day. A private lawyer might be very helpful in resolving issues such as possible bail and punishment before your appearance in court.

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

Re: bench warrant for missing court

The longer you wait, the worse it will look for you in front of the judge.

You need to get your case on calendar and try your best (hopefully with an attorney) to explain why you couldn't complete the obligation you agreed to. With luck, you'll be reinstated on probation and given time to complete what you're supposed to do. There may be additional penalties (more hours to do, pay a fine, etc.)

At worst, you could be taken into custody and serve jail time instead of being given another opportunity to do what you were supposed.

I do know that waiting is not going to make it any better. You're going to have to face the music at some point. Better to turn yourself in rather than be picked up on a warrant and dragged back to court.

Re: bench warrant for missing court

If you voluntarily turn yourself into court with an attorney, and if you have a good excuse and clean record since then, he might be able to persuade the court to allow you reinstatement to the program & probation and to minimize the penalties for the FTA and warrant. If this is in SoCal courts, and if you're serious about doing so, feel free to contact me.

Re: bench warrant for missing court

If it was a misdemeanor an attorney may appear on your behalf, have your probation reinstated and matter resolved. I have been successful in similar cases having the remaining public service vacated as well. Contact me directly.