Q: Can they change court date on a speeding ticket without notifying you?
I called to ask about more time to pay a speeding ticket. They told me show up to court and they will give me more time. But they changed the court dat from tomorrow to a day next week. I can't go next week I will be out of town for work. What can I do?
A:
(1) You can pay your ticket before the court date if you do not plan to contest the ticket (unless a required court appearance offense).
(2) You can hire an attorney to represent you. That attorney could appear on your behalf and enter a plea. You would not have to be present.
(3) You could file a written motion with the clerk of court for the responsible Court asking to upset, continue and re-set the court date. While you don't have to have an attorney to do this, retaining an attorney would be advisable.
(4) You could attempt to have the date changed again by phoning and explaining the circumstances, but action would be at the discretion of the Court. A Court is reluctant to change a court appearance multiple times.
(5) You could appear at Court, as directed and change your work requirement and responsibilities. You should be aware that many have conflicting requirements with court dates. The Court simply can't work around everyone's other obligations. A court appearance is important. Failure to appear would likely result in a bench warrant being issued and perhaps your license being suspended. Given the significance of the Court appearance, recommend you act accordingly.
Recommend you consult with a traffic court criminal defense attorney if you have further questions. Good luck.
A: Hire a traffic court lawyer to handle it in your absence or to continue it.
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