What to Do If You Miss a Court Date in San Diego (And How to Avoid a Warrant)

Missing a court date can be stressful, and many people don’t realize that failing to appear can lead to a warrant for your arrest. Whether you forgot, had an emergency, or simply didn’t know about your court date, taking quick action is key to avoiding serious legal consequences. Here’s what you need to do if you miss a court date in San Diego County and how to handle the situation before it gets worse.

What Happens When You Miss a Court Date?

If you fail to appear for a scheduled court hearing, the judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This means law enforcement has the authority to take you into custody at any time, whether during a routine traffic stop, at work, or even at home. Additionally: ✅ Bail may be forfeited – If you were out on bail, skipping court can result in losing the bail money. ✅ New criminal charges – Failure to appear (FTA) is a separate offense and can lead to additional penalties. ✅ Increased bail amount – If you’re re-arrested, the judge may set a higher bail or deny bail altogether.

How to Fix a Missed Court Date and Avoid Arrest

If you missed your court date, don’t wait for the police to come looking for you—take action immediately:

1️⃣ Check If a Warrant Has Been Issued

• Contact the courthouse or check online here to see if a bench warrant has been filed in your name.

• Call Allergic to Handcuffs at 619-512-4111 for a free warrant check to find out your status quickly.

2️⃣ Contact a Bail Bondsman to Clear Your Warrant

• In San Diego and Riverside counties, you can clear a warrant by posting a bail bond instead of turning yourself in.

• We can post your bond electronically, allowing you to avoid jail and get a new court date without being taken into custody.

3️⃣ Call Your Attorney or Public Defender

• If you have legal representation, inform them immediately. They may be able to request a warrant recall and reschedule your court date.

4️⃣ Appear in Court Voluntarily

• Some judges are more lenient if you take responsibility and show up voluntarily rather than waiting to be arrested.

How to Avoid Missing a Court Date in the Future

🗓️ Set Calendar Reminders – Use your phone or write down your court date where you’ll see it. 📩 Confirm Your Hearing Date – Call the courthouse ahead of time to double-check the schedule. 📞 Stay in Contact with Your Bail Bondsman – At Allergic to Handcuffs, we remind clients of upcoming court dates to help them stay on track.

Need to Clear a Warrant? Call Allergic to Handcuffs Today!

🚀 100% of our clients who cleared a warrant attended their court date! 📞 Call 619-512-4111 for a Free Warrant Check & Bail Assistance 💻 Electronic Bail Processing – No Need to Visit an Office

Final Thoughts

Missing a court date doesn’t have to mean getting arrested. By taking quick action, you can avoid additional charges, clear your warrant, and get back on track. If you need help with bail or warrant clearance, don’t wait—call Allergic to Handcuffs today and let’s get this resolved FAST!