What Happens if I Miss My Court Date in SC?

judge with gavel

Whether you simply forgot or were faced with extenuating circumstances, failing to appear in court can have serious consequences. If you miss a court date in South Carolina, it’s imperative to understand the penalties you can face and why connecting with a determined Chesterfield Criminal Defense Lawyer is in your best interest when charged with a criminal offense. 

What Penalties Can I Face if I Miss a Court Date?

Failure to appear is a serious criminal offense that can lead to various penalties. One of the most immediate consequences of missing a scheduled court date is the presiding judge issuing a bench warrant for your arrest. This authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody, and it will remain active until you resolve the issue. It’s important to keep in mind a bench warrant will become part of your permanent record, which means the judge is much more likely to issue a warrant for your arrest in the future if you were to miss a court date again.

If you were released on a bond, failure to appear can result in the revocation or modification of your bail conditions. This means you would forfeit the right to have your money or property that you pledged as collated returned. Nevertheless, the severity of the penalties you will face depends on the nature of your original crime and the judge’s discretion. In some cases, the court may decide to impose additional sanctions, fines, higher bail, and even jail time.

What Should I Do if I Miss My Hearing?

Missing a court date can have serious repercussions in South Carolina, but understanding how to navigate the system afterward is crucial for mitigating the potential consequences. Acting promptly can help address the situation effectively and minimize the fallout. The first step you should take is immediately contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney. They will provide specific advice based on the unique circumstances of your case and the reasons for your absence on how to proceed to protect yourself. They can also communicate with the court on your behalf and assist you in determining a justified reason for missing your court date.

If a bench warrant has been issued due to your failure to appear, it’s crucial to address it. A criminal defense attorney can help arrange for you to turn yourself in, if necessary, and advocate for your rights in court to have the warrant recalled or quashed. If you anticipate missing your court hearing, you should contact the court. It’s important to understand that not every reason for missing a court date is a valid reason. However, if for instance, you were involved in a car accident or had to be rushed to the hospital because of a debilitating medical condition on the date you were supposed to appear in court, it can serve as a justified reason for your failure to appear in court. Nevertheless, even if explain your reason for missing your date and ask to reschedule the hearing, your request may not be granted.

As you can see, missing your court hearing can have grave ramifications. At the Cockrell Law Firm, P.C., we are prepared to shield you from your charges and protect your rights. Our legal team can help guide you through this complex process and tirelessly defend your interests. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can help you navigate your options.