In Oklahoma failure to appear warrants are generally a consequence of missing a court appearance. These warrants can lead to serious consequences, such as fines, license suspension, and potential jail time, so it’s important to resolve them quickly. Here’s how you can address an FTA or bench warrant in Wagoner to avoid further complications.
Understand The Implications of an FTA Warrant
An FTA warrant shows that you missed a scheduled court date, which can bring several penalties, including:
- Additional Charges: Courts may impose contempt charges or increase existing penalties.
- Fines and Costs: You may face additional fines due to the missed appearance.
- Driver’s License Suspension: The warrant can lead to suspension of your driver’s license until you resolve it.
- Arrest and Jail Time: Depending on the initial charge, you may be subject to arrest.
Because of the potential consequence, it’s important to get these warrants resolved as quickly as possible.
Steps to Resolve an FTA Warrant in Wagoner
To resolve an FTA warrant effectively, follow these steps:
- Contact the Court: Reach out to the Wagoner County court clerk to confirm the warrant details. In some cases, the court may allow you to reschedule a court date without arrest, especially if this is your first missed appearance.
- Consult an Attorney: An experienced local attorney can negotiate with the court on your behalf, request to have the warrant dismissed (or “quashed”), and prepare you for any necessary appearances.
- Appear Voluntarily: Appearing voluntarily in Wagoner County Court may help reduce penalties. However, some warrants require an arrest, so consult an attorney first to ensure you approach it correctly.
Request a Warrant Quash Hearing
You may request a hearing to ask the court to add you on to the docket and the warrant. You will have to demonstrate to the court that extenuating circumstances caused you to miss court. Courts may recall a warrant if you provide valid evidence or a reasonable explanation, such as a medical emergency. In this circumstance its always better to contact a lawyer that has experience resolving this kind of issue. Although courts disfavor recalling failure to appear warrants it is possible.
Follow All Court Directives
Once you resolve the FTA warrant, make sure to follow all court orders, including new court dates and fines, to avoid further legal issues. If you do not the Court has the authority to triple your bond once the Police find you and pick you up on the warrant.
Avoiding Failure To Appear Warrants In Wagoner
Resolving an failure to appear warrants in Wagoner involves acting quickly by contacting the court, consulting a criminal defense attorney you can count on, or appearing voluntarily. Working with a lawyer familiar with Wagoner County procedures can help you achieve the best outcome and stay compliant with court requirements.
