What is Failure to Appear?

A failure to appear, which is known as a VC40508 (A) is a notice you get in the mail if you didn’t appear in court for your traffic ticket.

Failure to Appear is a common outcome of a traffic ticket in California.

Most people believe that they’ll get a letter in the mail telling them when they must appear in court. But each time you sign a traffic ticket you’re making a contract with the State of California. You’re also agreeing to appear in court.

We have many clients who have received a failure to appear in the mail and they don’t know what to do about it.

► If you received a Failure to Appear, call us right now at (818) 213-5130 to get your FREE consultation so we can help you.

What Happens if You Receive a Failure to Appear?

There are two outcomes of receiving a failure to appear. The state authorities will hand you a fine and may decide to suspend your driving license.

A failure to appear is not a minor matter. It’s a criminal offense because on the bottom of every traffic ticket is the date when you must appear in court.

Are there Any Valid Excuses?

When people decide to call us about a failure to appear for a completely free consultation with one of our experts, which you should take advantage of, they ask about any valid reasons.

Unfortunately, you’ll find that there are only three valid excuses. These are that you were in jail, in the military, or in hospital. And you must support your claims with official documentation.

How Can an Attorney Help You?

A single failure to appear on your record is relatively easy to deal with. We mentioned that there are just three valid excuses. But that doesn’t mean you’re going to have to settle for a large fine.

When you do appear in court with your attorney, after you go through the administrative process, your attorney can work to have your failure to appear removed.

Many judges are sympathetic to simple forgetfulness. An attorney may advise that you plead a certain way and then they’ll negotiate an outcome that doesn’t lead to you paying a fine.

In these situations, an attorney is essential.

► If you’ve received a failure to appear and have a logical explanation for missing your court date give our firm a call at (818) 213-5130

Why You Should Hire an Attorney

A failure to appear typically requires three half-days in court. That means three trips. This can be stressful and confusing all at the same time.

A skilled attorney is versed in how the courts work and they’ll be able to get you through this complicated process.

Finally, an attorney has the power to have the failure to appear removed or to at least reduce the fine.

Last Word – It’s Always Worth Hiring an Attorney

An attorney is a worthwhile investment if you receive a failure to appear.

Call us today at (818) 213-5130 and get your FREE CONSULTATION consultation from one of our professional attorneys

Free Case Analysis

The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact Ticket Dismissers. For a free accurate case analysis, please call 818-213-5130 or complete our contact form.