Kansas City, KS asked in Criminal Law, DUI / DWI, Traffic Tickets and Collections for Arkansas

Q: What can you do if you can't pay your fines

I live in Missouri now but in 2011 I was living in Hot Springs AR, I got a public intoxication charge and never paid the fine. Now they have a hold on my drivers license so I can't get reinstated but I am eligible for reinstatement in MO, I have not had a DL since 2008/9 because I had a dui in MO. I'm trying to put my life back together I'm sober now for 4 years and this is holding back from moving forward with my life and I just can't pay it. I have a warrant now in Garland county and they told me on the phone that I have to turn myself in, and that they wouldn't take a payment now even if I had the money, I have to show up in person. What if anything can I do about it ? I'm willing to go down there and pay it off with jail time if that is an option but I have a job here and 2 kids and a home I can't just go down there and end up sitting in jail for who knows how long. If I turn myself in will it take money off for time spent in jail?

Any advice will be much appreciated!!

2 Lawyer Answers
W. Whitfield Hyman
W. Whitfield Hyman
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Fayetteville, AR
  • Licensed in Arkansas

A: If you hire an attorney they may be able to lift the warrant for you.

I recommend Shane Ethridge in that area.

Harley Wagner
Harley Wagner
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Martinsburg, WV

A: True financial inability to pay has been an area of national concern among criminal justice attorneys. Judges, however, must be convinced that you cannot pay. Plus, the judges want you to communicate with probation, when such issues arise.

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