What Happens If You Get an FTA Criminal Charge? Steps to Take

A Failure to Appear (FTA) criminal offence is committed when an individual fails to appear in a courtroom on a set date after having been called. The crime carries serious consequences like fines, arrest warrants, and other criminal offences. Once you have been fta criminal charge, it is advisable to know the legal consequences and act accordingly to dispose of the case.

Consequences of an FTA Criminal Charge

Failure to appear in court has serious legal repercussions. How extensive they are will depend on the initial offence and state laws. Some of the possible outcomes are the following:

• Bench Warrant Issued – If a defendant fails to appear in court, the judge can issue a bench warrant for his or her arrest. The police may arrest the individual at any time.

• Extraneous Charges – FTA, in some cases, can turn into an additional misdemeanor or felony, which leads to other legal problems.

• License Suspension – Driver's licenses of those having pending FTA charges are suspended in the majority of states, affecting daily activities and transportation.

• Bail Forfeiture – In case the bail is already posted, failure to appear in court may lead to forfeiting the amount of the bail, which entails loss of money.

• Increased Penalties – Sometimes, increased penalties such as longer probation, community service, or higher fines will be added.

What to Do When You've Been Charged with an FTA Criminal Crime?

When you've been charged with Failure to Appear, procrastinating will make it even more serious on your criminal record. Do these crucial things:

1. Use the Services of an Attorney Immediately

The first thing and the first step is to see a lawyer. Your defence attorney will guide you through the justice system and assist you with the best advice. Your lawyer can also plea bargain with the court so that the warrant can be cancelled or reduced punishments.

2. Determine the Reason for Your Absence

The courts will pity a case of exigency, i.e., hospitalization or inevitable reasons. Gather all evidence in favour of your case and present the same to your attorney.

3. Appear Voluntarily in Court

Ordering the court to act on your own to come before the court at once may demonstrate that you are acting personally responsibly. In some situations, this may result in lenient punishment.

4. Motion to Set Aside the Warrant

Your attorney can file to vacate or withdraw the bench warrant. If successful, this might end your arrest and allow you to reschedule your hearing.

5. Prepare Court Proceedings

Once your court hearing has been rescheduled, work with your attorney to build a strong defence. This may be by acquiring evidence, lining up character witnesses, or proving any conditions that precipitated the FTA offence.

6. Follow Court Orders

If there are any fines or conditions that the court imposes, follow them to the letter so that there is no future legal issue. They are payment of fines, appearing at hearings, and completion of mandatory community service or probation time.

Avoiding Future FTA Charges

To avoid any future problems with the law, take initiative and play your role so that you never miss your appearance in court again:

• Mark Your Calendar: Plan and set reminders and alarms for court dates a day or more in advance.

• Update Contact Info: Ensure the court is aware of your present phone number and address so that you get notices.

• Speak with Your Lawyer: If you foresee scheduling conflicts, inform your attorney as early as possible so that she/he can request the hearing be rescheduled.

• Arrive in Time: Arrive early and account for any delay, e.g., traffic or security check, to arrive on time.

Wrapping Up

A charge of FTA crime is a charge that can lead to arrest warrants, supplemental charges, and fines. Taking action early—e.g., by obtaining an attorney, voluntarily surrendering to court, and filing a motion to recall the warrant—can make it less burdensome. Being responsible for paying legal dues and being on time for court can prevent future inconvenience. If you are charged with an FTA, go see a competent legal professional immediately to address the problem with care.