Missing a court date in Connecticut is a serious matter with immediate legal consequences. Whether you forgot, misunderstood the date, or ran into unexpected issues, failing to appear can affect your freedom, your finances, and your case.

Here’s what to expect if you or a loved one misses court after being released on bail in New Haven, Hartford, or Tolland counties.

Failure to Appear (FTA) Is a Criminal Offense

If you miss a scheduled court appearance, the court will likely issue a Failure to Appear (FTA) charge. This is not just a procedural issue. It is a separate criminal offense in Connecticut, and penalties vary depending on the original charge.

• If the original charge was a misdemeanor, the FTA can be a misdemeanor with potential jail time and fines.
  
• If the original charge was a felony, the FTA may become a felony as well, leading to more severe consequences.

A Bench Warrant Will Be Issued

After missing court, the judge will typically issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This means law enforcement has the authority to take you into custody at any time. Bench warrants remain active until resolved, and they do not expire.

The Bail Bond May Be Forfeited

When a defendant skips court, the bail bond company is notified. If the defendant doesn’t return to court within a specific time frame, the bond may be forfeited. This means:

• The court keeps the full bail amount.
• The co-signer (if any) may be held financially responsible.
• The bail bond agency, such as 911 Bail Bonding, may pursue recovery efforts to bring the defendant back into custody.

It Can Hurt Your Legal Case

Missing court can negatively impact your defense. Judges and prosecutors may view the failure as a sign of irresponsibility or flight risk, which could result in:

• Higher bail amounts if re-released
• Denial of future bail
• Harsher sentencing if convicted

What to Do If You Missed Court

If you missed your court date, take action immediately. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. Contact the Court – Call the clerk's office in the county where your case is filed to find out what happened and whether a bench warrant was issued.
   
2. Call Your Bail Bondsman – If you used a bail bond, notify the agency right away. 911 Bail Bonding can guide you through the next steps and may help arrange a voluntary surrender.
   
3. Speak to Your Attorney – A lawyer can file a motion to vacate the warrant and reschedule your court date if appropriate.

Can You Fix a Missed Court Date Without Going to Jail?

In some cases, yes. If you act quickly, your attorney may be able to resolve the situation without you being taken into custody. However, every case is different, and timing is critical.

911 Bail Bonding Is Here to Help

If you or someone you know has missed a court date, don’t wait. The sooner you respond, the better your chances of minimizing the damage. At 911 Bail Bonding, we understand the local court systems in New Haven, Hartford, and Tolland counties, and we can help you take the right next step.