Penalties & Next Steps

Learn About Next Steps

Here we provide you with essential information about the consequences of failing to appear in court, the procedures for arrests, and the impact on your driver's license. Our goal is to help you understand your responsibilities and navigate the legal process effectively.

Failure to Appear

The section details the ramifications of failing to appear in court for your scheduled hearing. You'll learn about the potential penalties, including fines, bench warrants, and other legal consequences. We'll also provide guidance on what to do if you have missed your court date and how to resolve the issue.

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Procedures for Arrests and Misdemeanor Summonses

This section outlines the steps involved when an individual is arrested in connection with a municipal or traffic offense. We'll cover the booking process, bail procedures, and what to expect if you or someone you know is taken into custody. Understanding the arrest procedure can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights.

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Driver's License Impact

This section identifies how certain municipal and traffic offenses may impact your driver's license. We'll detail the circumstances that may lead to license suspension or revocation, the steps you can take to reinstate your license, and the importance of maintaining a valid license. We'll also provide information on how to obtain a hardship license if you are eligible.

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Failure to Appear

When you receive a traffic citation or summons from a police officer in New Orleans, it is crucial to take note of the first appearance/arraignment date listed at the bottom of the document. This date is your deadline to take action or appear in court to address your case.

It is essential to respond to the citation or summons by the specified date. You have a few options:

1. Pay the Fine

If you choose to plead guilty and pay the fine, you can do so before the appearance date. Go to the Municipal and Traffic Court: Tickets - Fines - Fees page for payment options and instructions.

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2. Plead Not Guilty

If you wish to contest the charges, you must appear in court on the specified date to enter a plea of not guilty. The court will then schedule a trial date.

Failing to take action or appear in court by the specified date can result in serious consequences:

Contempt of court: You may be held in contempt of court and assessed additional costs/fees.

Arrest warrant: A warrant or attachment may be issued for your arrest, which can lead to being taken into custody.

Driver's license suspension: The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles may suspend your driver's license, affecting your ability to legally drive.

Additional costs and fees: You may be subject to other actions and assessed additional costs and fees, increasing the financial burden of your case.

If you have missed your appearance date, it is crucial to act promptly. Appear at the Municipal and Traffic Court of New Orleans as soon as possible to address your case.

Procedures for Arrests and Misdemeanor Summonses

All misdemeanor and arrest cases must appear before a judge.

If a police officer arrested you for a traffic violation (i.e. Driving While Intoxicated) or a misdemeanor, you were given some paperwork when you were released. This paperwork includes a date for your "First Appearance Court."

It is very important that you or a licensed attorney representing you go to the court on the date mentioned in the paperwork. This court appearance is called the "First Appearance Court."

If you don't show up for this court date, the following may be issued:

The judge may issue a warrant for your arrest. This means that the police can arrest you and bring you to jail.

Forfeiture of your bond (if applicable)

The court may add extra fees and penalties that you will have to pay on top of any fines for your traffic violation or misdemeanor.

To avoid these consequences, make sure you or your attorney go to the First Appearance Court on the date listed on your paperwork. If you have any questions or need help, you can contact the court or talk to a lawyer.

Driver's License Impact

If your license has been suspended by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles due to non-appearance on your Municipal and Traffic court of New Orleans ticket, you must report to court to request a document of clearance to provide to the OMV to free your license from suspension. All pending cases with the Municipal and traffic court of New Orleans must be resolved or brought current before any clearance will be given for the Office of Motor Vehicles.

To check the status of your driver's license, visit www.expresslane.org for more information.