Missing a court date in Texas is a serious problem. Whether the case is a traffic ticket, misdemeanor, or felony, failing to appear can trigger immediate legal action. That includes a bench warrant, additional charges, and possible jail time.
At 24/7 Bail Bonds, we know how stressful court situations can be—especially if you’re trying to take care of your home, your job, and your family. If you or a loved one has missed a court date, acting quickly can protect your freedom and help you stay out of further trouble.
What Happens Immediately After You Miss a Court Date?
A Bench Warrant May Be Issued
If you miss court in Texas, the judge may issue a bench warrant. This gives law enforcement the right to arrest you at any time. You could be picked up at home, pulled over while driving, or taken in from your workplace.
This warrant does not expire. It stays active until the court cancels it or you are arrested. Even if the original charge was minor, the missed court date becomes its own legal issue.
Failure to Appear (FTA) Is a Criminal Charge
Under Texas Penal Code § 38.10, failure to appear (FTA) is a separate charge.
- If your original case was a misdemeanor, FTA can be a Class A or Class C misdemeanor.
- If your original charge was a felony, FTA can become a felony too.
This adds more penalties, possible jail time, and a mark on your criminal record.
Bail or Bond May Be Revoked
If you were released on bail or had a bond in place, missing your court date can lead to revocation. That means you lose the bond and may owe the full bail amount. Your bail bondsman may also send a bounty hunter to locate you.
Once your bond is revoked, it’s harder and more expensive to get released again.
Driver’s License Suspension
For traffic-related cases, the court may notify the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). DPS can block your license renewal or suspend your driver’s license until you resolve the case. According to Texas Transportation Code § 706.006, there’s also a $10–$30 administrative fee.
Added Court Fees and Fines
Missing court usually brings more fines. You might face:
- A $500 fine for failure to appear
- Court costs
- Late fees
These add up fast and can create a financial burden for your household.
Long-Term Risks of Not Resolving a Missed Court Date
Arrest Can Happen Anytime
Bench warrants stay active until cleared. That means you could be arrested during a traffic stop or even while doing errands with your family.
Trouble Getting Future Bail
If you miss court once, judges may be less willing to offer bail again. If they do, it might be much higher than before.
Harsher Sentencing
Missing court tells the judge you’re not taking the case seriously. This can result in longer sentences, higher fines, or both if you’re convicted.
Common Reasons for Missing Court (and What Courts Might Accept)
Medical Emergencies
If you were in the hospital or had a serious medical issue, you’ll need to show proof. This can include:
- Hospital records
- Doctor’s notes
- Emergency room bills
You Never Received Notice
If your court notice went to the wrong address or got lost in the mail, the court may understand. But you must show:
- Proof of your correct address
- Lack of delivery
- Errors in court records
You Were in Jail or on Military Duty
If you were held in another jurisdiction or deployed, provide jail documents or official military orders.
Family Emergencies
Life-threatening events involving close family—like a death or serious accident—may be accepted. To prove this, bring:
- Death certificates
- Medical records
- Sworn statements
How to Fix a Missed Court Date in Texas
Contact the Court Right Away
Call the court clerk as soon as you realize you missed your date.
Ask if a bench warrant has been issued.
In some counties, the clerk may help you reset the date if you act quickly.
Call Your Bail Bondsman
If you’re out on bond, contact your bail bondsman immediately.
We may be able to help you post a new bond, clear your warrant, and avoid arrest.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
A lawyer can:
- File a motion to quash or recall the warrant
- Request a new court date
- Represent you in court
In some cases, your lawyer can appear for you so you don’t have to go to jail or miss work.
Arrange a Voluntary Surrender
If there’s already a warrant and no reset option, talk with your bondsman and lawyer about surrendering on your own. This shows responsibility and may improve your outcome. You may even qualify for a personal bond and avoid time in jail.
What Not to Do
- Don’t ignore the warrant. It won’t go away.
- Don’t assume paying the fine fixes everything. It may not clear the warrant or prevent further charges.
- Don’t wait. The longer you delay, the fewer options you’ll have.
Can You Pay the Fine and Skip Court?
For Class C misdemeanors like minor traffic tickets, paying the fine is sometimes allowed instead of appearing. But paying is a guilty plea. It may:
- Add points to your driving record
- Raise insurance rates
- Leave you with a criminal record
Always check with the court or your lawyer before deciding to pay.
How Many Times Can You Reschedule Court in Texas?
There’s no fixed number statewide. But judges don’t like repeated delays. If you ask too many times, your request may be denied. That’s why having a lawyer helps—they know how to make valid requests the right way.
How a Bail Bondsman Can Help
At 24/7 Bail Bonds, we work fast to:
- Check for active warrants
- Help you post a new bond
- Guide you through the steps to clear your name
We’re available day or night to help you avoid jail and get back home.
Act Now to Protect Yourself
Missing a court date in Texas can lead to arrest, new charges, and extra fines. But if you act quickly, you may be able to fix the issue before it gets worse.
Start by calling the court, your bail bondsman, and a lawyer. Taking these steps shows the court you’re serious and may reduce penalties or prevent arrest.
Need Help? Call 24/7 Bail Bonds Now
We’re a family-owned company that knows how to handle missed court dates. If you or someone you love needs help fast, call us anytime. We’ll work to get your case back on track—day or night.
