Continuances

A continuance may only be requested in open court on your court date. This means you or your attorney must personally appear in court on your court date and request a continuance.

You cannot call and request a continuance or request a continuance by mail. You must personally appear in court and make your motion for a continuance. There is also no guarantee that a continuance will be granted by the court.

If you have been charged with a traffic violation, and you know in advance that you will not be able to be in court on your assigned court date, you may come to the Wake County Courthouse Monday through Friday between 2pm-3:30pm prior to your court date and appear in our Convenience Court. Convenience Court, which is operated in the kiosk next to Courtroom 1A, provides you an opportunity to speak with an Assistant District Attorney about a potential reduction of the charge in your case. You must intend to plead responsible and pay your ticket on the day you appear.

What if I missed my court date?

If you have missed your court date by more than twenty (20) days, a late fee of $200.00 will be added to the fine and court costs. Additionally, the Division of Motor Vehicles will start the process to suspend your driver's license.

If your personal court appearance was required and you failed to appear on your court date, the court will issue an Order for Arrest. You may also be required to post a bond to insure your appearance in court at a later date.

You may complete a request for a new court date and get more information regarding missed court dates by visiting the Clerk's Office Criminal Division, located on the 1st floor of the Wake County Courthouse.

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