court hearing

The court is serious about its orders, and its rules are not something to be taken lightly. Courts impose punishments to lawbreakers not just because of their violations, but also if the defendant, who was released on bail, fails to appear during their court appointments.

As a bail bond company in Tampa, we don’t only help you or your loved one get out of jail on bail, but we also assist you through court hearings. Alongside your lawyer, we will make sure you are aware of all your court appointments, so you don’t get in any more troubles. This is because if you fail to appear in court for a hearing, there are serious consequences you will face.

You Can be Re-arrested

The frequency of your court appointments depends on the severity of your case. Generally, suspected violators are required to appear for an arraignment, pre-trial conference, hearing, trial, sentencing, and other court proceedings. If you are not present during your court hearing, the judge can issue a warrant of arrest.

The bench warrant allows authorities to take you into custody once again. In some cases, police officers may even go to your workplace or home to execute the warrant. Then, you will be ordered to stay in jail until a hearing on your failure to appear (FTA) takes place.

Prosecutor May File a Separate Charge

If you fail to appear in your court hearings, you may also be subject to a contempt citation. Prosecutors have the option to file a separate charge for your failure to appear during a court proceeding, especially if the violation is flagrant or intentional.

Particularly, in Florida, courts abide by the Florida Statute 843.15. Under the Florida Statute 843.15 (1)(a), a defendant charged with a felony case may face a third-degree felony case if they willfully fail to appear in any court proceeding. Furthermore, under the Florida Statute 843.15 (1)(b), a defendant charged with a misdemeanor may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor if they fail to appear in their court appointment.

Bond Will be Set at a Higher Amount

The court may order the revocation of your bond or alter the conditions of your release if you don’t show up in a court appointment. If you were previously released on your own recognizance, the judge can now impose a bond, which requires you to deposit money so you will be released from custody while the case is pending.

If, however, you have already posted bail before, the judge can set the new bail at a higher amount, and you may be required to stay in custody until the completion of the case.

The court notifies all parties involved  – prosecutors, jury, lawyers, defendants – about court proceedings ahead of time.  This means you have no reason to miss a court appointment unless under circumstances such as a serious illness, natural disaster, or accident. If this is the case, your lawyer can use these reasons as a defense to your FTA charge. Otherwise, it’s in your best interest to be mindful of your court appointments to avoid more legal trouble.

If you or your loved one needs assistance on your bail and the process, contact us for our services. Our bail bond agents are available 24/7.

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