What Happens If You Miss a Court Date in Calgary?
Courts in Alberta take their criminal justice system seriously. Missing court dates can lead to critical consequences that will leave an impact on your reputation. Regardless of the reason, the court will require your attendance as mandatory. Avoid confusing the schedule with other matters as this is important to appear in. However, in the case that you do miss a court date, don’t panic and instead think rationally of how you can react to address the situation appropriately. If you do not have sufficient understanding of what to do, speak with a defence lawyer in Calgary so you can learn more about what your options are.
Why Court Attendance Matters
The court will provide you a date on when to appear for your hearing after you receive a charge for an offence. Your presence is required for the charges to be thoroughly reviewed. This is also where the court will let you explain your side. Thus, failing to appear will prevent the court from thoroughly reviewing your case. And affects how they view you on how serious you take the charges placed against you.
What Happens Immediately After You Miss a Court Date?
A warrant may be issued
A judge has the power to issue you a bench warrant. Authorizing the police to bring you in for questioning before the court.
Your charges do not go away
Missing court does not make your charges go away. Rather, it adds complications to the situation you are already facing.
You may face an additional charge
In Alberta, if you miss a court summon, you can incur a separate criminal charge under the Criminal Code. Affecting your record and the Crown on how to view you.
Your release conditions could change
The court may adjust conditions after a missed appearance. They can end up making the terms of your previous release to be stricter.
Common Reasons People Miss Court
It is not unusual for individuals to miss court for reasons such as:
- Not receiving the correct date
- Confusion about the time or courthouse location
- Medical issues or emergencies
- Transportation challenges
- Anxiety about appearing in court
Be as transparent as possible with your lawyer so they can understand the reason and assist you better.
What To Do If You Realize You Missed a Court Date
Taking action quickly is important. A defence lawyer in Calgary can help guide you through the steps, which may include:
Arranging to deal with the warrant
A defence lawyer can assist in making the situation be more organized, prioritizing your safety. One way is that they can arrange a date ahead so you won’t have to be arrested unexpectedly.
Speaking with the Crown and scheduling a new appearance
Your lawyer can help set a new court date with the Crown for the hearing to proceed.
Explaining the circumstances
Your lawyer can inform the court if you do miss the hearing and have a legitimate reason. Allowing the judge to understand as to why you failed to show up the first time.
Addressing any new charges
Your lawyer will be able to help you to understand how the added charge relates to your original charges.
How a Defence Lawyer in Calgary Can Help
A missed court date can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unsure how to correct it. A lawyer can:
- Review your situation
- Explain the process for dealing with a warrant
- Represent you in court
- Communicate with the Crown on your behalf
- Help ensure you understand your next appearance and the steps to follow
Do not shy away from seeking legal support. As they can avoid the situation from worsening.
Speak With Muenz Criminal Law
Missing a court date or receiving a warrant can overwhelm even the calmest individuals. What matters is to act appropriately without letting it sit for too long. Reach out to Muenz Criminal Law and speak with a defence lawyer in Calgary. That way, we can provide you with legal support. Advising you on what you can do moving forward.