Legal Question in Criminal Law in South Carolina

failure to compy. multiple court dates

I was given citation for operating without a business license. When I went to court the officer did not show up and they said they would reschedule it. They sent a letter giving court the next week. I had another civil court matter that week in circuit court and asked for a continuance. The second court date kept getting moved around also. It was very dramatic and pre-occupied me. I forgot to call and tell them I wasn't going to be able to make it for the business license thing. When I called the next morning they said I was guilty and have to pay a huge fine or serve 30 days. Is there anyway to get a new court date again or get the fine reduced or something.? I did purchase the business license even though it's never really been used.


Asked on 1/02/09, 2:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Johnston Law Offices of Robert J. Johnston

Re: failure to compy. multiple court dates

There is certain law that allows a person to file a motion with the court and ask that a case be "reopened." However, there is no guarantee that they will grant the motion. The court will consider the request based on extenuating circumstances, such as insufficient notice, illness, etc. If you should decide to go that route make sure you make arrangements to have time on paying the fine or serving the time in jail so as to not complicate that.

Read more
Answered on 1/02/09, 3:57 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in South Carolina