How Long Before an Unpaid Ticket Becomes a Warrant in New Orleans?

If you’ve recently received a traffic ticket in New Orleans and haven’t paid it, you might be wondering how long you have before that unpaid ticket turns into something more serious – like a warrant for your arrest.

At the Law Office of Heather C. Ford, we understand the stress and confusion that can come with traffic violations. Let’s break down the timeline and process for unpaid tickets.

The Traffic Ticket Process in New Orleans

In New Orleans, most traffic tickets stem from moving violations like speeding, running red lights, and more.

When you receive a ticket, you typically have three options:

• Pay the fine
• Contest the ticket in court
• Ignore the ticket (not recommended)

So, how long do you have before that unpaid ticket becomes a warrant? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might hope, but we’ll break it down for you.

First Appearance Date

Your traffic citation or summons will have a first appearance/arraignment date written on the front. This is a crucial deadline.

You must take action or appear on or before this date. It can vary depending on when your ticket was issued and the court’s schedule.

Consequences of Failing to Appear or Take Action

If you fail to appear or take action by your first appearance date, several things may happen:

1. You may be held in contempt of Court and assessed additional costs/fees.
2. A Warrant/Attachment may be issued for your arrest.
3. Your driver’s license may be suspended by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.
4. You may be subject to other actions and assessed additional costs/fees.

Factors That Can Affect the Ticket to Warrant Timeline

It’s important to note that the timeline can vary based on several factors:

• Type of Violation: More serious violations may lead to more immediate consequences.
• Court Schedule: The first appearance date on your ticket is set based on the court’s schedule.
• Your Actions: Taking prompt action (paying the fine or appearing in court) can prevent the escalation to a warrant.

The Consequences of an Arrest Warrant

Once a warrant is issued, the consequences can be severe:

1. Arrest: You can be arrested during any interaction with law enforcement, even for unrelated matters.
2. License Suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended.
3. Increased Fines: Additional fees and fines will be added to your original ticket amount.
4. Impact on Employment: Some employers conduct regular background checks, and an outstanding warrant could jeopardize your job.

What to Do If You Have an Unpaid Ticket

If you have an unpaid ticket in New Orleans, don’t panic. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Check Your Status: Contact the New Orleans Municipal and Traffic Court to verify the status of your ticket and confirm your court date.
2. Consult with an Attorney: Before making any decisions, it’s advisable to consult with a traffic attorney who can review your case and advise you on the best course of action.
3. Appear in Court: As your attorneys, we’ll appear in court on your behalf. This means you may not need to miss work or other obligations to attend court sessions.
4. Consider Contesting the Ticket: Depending on the circumstances of your case, contesting the ticket might be in your best interest. Our attorneys can help you determine if this is a viable option.
5. Understand Your Rights: Know that you have the right to plead not guilty and request a trial. An attorney can guide you through this process and help protect your rights.
6. Explore Alternative Resolutions: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate for reduced charges or alternative penalties. We can assist in these negotiations.

Don’t Let an Unpaid Ticket Become a Warrant – Act Now

The timeline from an unpaid ticket to a warrant in New Orleans can be as short as a few weeks, but it’s never too late to address the situation. Whether you’ve just received a ticket or you’re worried about an outstanding warrant, taking action sooner rather than later is always the best approach.

At the Law Office of Heather C. Ford, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of traffic violations in New Orleans. We understand that mistakes happen, and we’re committed to helping you resolve your ticket issues as efficiently and favorably as possible.

Don’t let an unpaid ticket escalate into a warrant. Contact us today to discuss your situation and explore your options. Remember, when it comes to traffic violations, proactive action is your best defense.