Q: If a witness fails to show up for court is the case dismissed?

A: Not necessarily. Victims and or witnesses are not always necessary in cases. If a witness is needed the case might be continued and the witness will be subpoenaed again.

Q: If I don’t show up for court, will my case be dismissed?

A: No. It is a crime for you, as the defendant, not to show up for court.  An order for your arrest will be issued by the judge. If you are a witness or a victim, the judge has the option to put you in jail.

Q: How do I get my case continued?

A: You are required to be in court on your court date. If you cannot come to court you must have an attorney come for you, not a friend or relative. You cannot call and ask for a continuance or mail or fax a motion for a continuance. You must come to court and ask for a continuance from the judge. If you cannot do any of the above, you need to file a Motion to Continue in the Clerk of Court’s office within five business days of your court date. If the judge grants you a new court date it will be sent by mail.

Q: Where do I get a court appointed attorney?

A: Court appointed attorneys are appointed by judges. You must be in court on your court date and ask to be screened for a court appointed attorney. One will be appointed if you are eligible.

Q: Can I fax or mail in proof of registration or proper inspection?

A: No, you must bring it with you to court on your court date and show it to the assigned assistant district attorney.

Q: Can I drop charges?

A: No, charges cannot be dropped before the court date. You must appear in court on your courtdate to discuss the case with the assigned assistant district attorney.

Q: I have been subpoenaed but cannot come/do not want to come.

A: A subpoena is a court ordered document. You are required to appear in court.

Q: Someone used my name and got a ticket. What do I do?

A: You need to contact the law enforcement officer who issued the ticket and have that officer verify that it was not you he cited.  The officer will have to present it to the assistant district attorney in court.

Q: I did not sign the back of my ticket, is it valid?