NJ Failure to Appear

NJ Failure to Appear

Missing a court date can have serious consequences in New Jersey. Judges can issue warrants, suspend licenses, and impose fines if you fail to appear as scheduled.

Understanding what happens when you miss court and potential defenses is key to avoiding penalties. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights if you fail to appear.

What is Failure to Appear in NJ?

In New Jersey, failure to appear (FTA) means not showing up for any scheduled court hearing after being properly notified. This includes:

• First appearances
• Arraignments
• Pre-trial conferences
• Trials
• Sentencing hearings

Showing up is not optional – it’s required. FTA violates your bail terms and New Jersey Rule 7:8-9.

Consequences of FTA in Municipal Court

For minor charges heard in municipal court, FTA can result in:

• Driver’s license suspension
• Fines and fees
• Arrest warrant
• Trial and sentencing in your absence

Judges can suspend your license, impose fines up to $1000, and issue a warrant forcing police to arrest you.

Consequences of FTA in Superior Court

For indictable charges in superior court, FTA leads to:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Cash-only bail when arrested
• Additional criminal charges
• Harsher plea bargains and sentences
• Trial in absentia

Felony FTA charges are very serious. Prosecutors will add bail jumping charges as well.

Defenses Against FTA Charges

There are defenses that can get FTA penalties dismissed and warrants recalled, such as:

• No notice – You never received information on the court date
• False notice – Incorrect date/time/place info
• Emergency – Hospitalization, accident, etc. prevented appearance
• Mistake – Thought the date was different

With evidence supporting a defense, your lawyer can get FTA penalties removed and warrants lifted.

Getting an FTA Warrant Lifted

If there is already a warrant due to FTA, your attorney can file a motion to recall the warrant. They will argue defenses like:

• Lack of notice
• Medical emergency
• Essential work conflict
• No willful failure to appear

If accepted, the judge will recall the warrant and schedule a new court date without penalties.

Restoring a Suspended License After FTA

For license suspensions, your lawyer can file for a hearing arguing good cause for your absence. If approved, the court will:

• Restore your driving privileges
• Waive restoration fees
• Order no additional FTA sanctions

This immediately ends the suspension and avoids extra fines and requirements.

Avoiding Bail Jumping Charges

To prevent felony bail jumping charges over FTA, your attorney can:

• Negotiate with prosecutors
• Get charges downgraded or dismissed
• File motions challenging any new charges

Strong legal advocacy can avoid escalating your case over an FTA.

Hiring an Attorney for Failure to Appear

Never ignore a missed court date – that only makes things exponentially worse. The consequences pile up quickly.

Retaining an experienced criminal defense lawyer is essential to contain the damage. They know how to get warrants recalled, licenses restored, and charges reversed or minimized after an FTA.

Don’t wait – get expert legal help defending against failure to appear consequences in New Jersey.