What Happens If You Miss a Court Date in Michigan?
Missing a court date is one of the most stressful situations a person can face. Whether it happened because of an emergency, a misunderstanding, or a scheduling mistake, the consequences can feel overwhelming. In Michigan, failing to appear for a scheduled court hearing is taken seriously, but understanding what happens next can help you take the right steps to regain control of the situation.
At You Call Bail Bond Agency, we work with people across Metro Detroit and throughout Michigan who are dealing with missed court dates. This guide explains what to expect, what you should do next, and how to protect yourself moving forward.
What “Failure to Appear” Means in Michigan
When you miss a required court date, the court labels it as a Failure to Appear (FTA). This is not just a missed appointment. It is considered a violation of your bond conditions and, in some cases, a separate criminal offense.
An FTA will stay on your record, and the court will take action immediately, even if you had a legitimate reason for missing your hearing.
What Happens Right After You Miss Court
Here is what typically occurs when you do not show up for your scheduled court hearing:
1. The Judge Issues a Bench Warrant
A bench warrant authorizes law enforcement to arrest you at any time. This can happen during a traffic stop, at home, or at work. The warrant stays active until you take action to resolve it.
2. Your Bond May Be Revoked
If you posted bond through a bail bond agency, the court may revoke it after an FTA. This means:
Your original bond amount may no longer apply.
A new, often higher bond may be required.
Your bail bond agency may need to surrender you to the court to reinstate the bond.
3. Additional Charges or Penalties May Apply
Depending on the type of case, an FTA can lead to:
Additional fines
A contempt of court charge
A misdemeanor or felony added to your record
These consequences vary based on the original charges and your history.
4. Your Driver’s License Can Be Suspended
For certain cases, especially those involving traffic violations or criminal driving-related charges, the court can notify the Secretary of State to suspend your Michigan driver’s license until the matter is resolved.
What You Should Do Immediately After Missing Court
Acting quickly can make a significant difference. Here are the steps you should take:
Contact Your Attorney
Your attorney can contact the court on your behalf, explain your situation, and help schedule a new hearing. The faster you act, the better your chances of avoiding additional penalties.
Call Your Bail Bond Agency
If You Call Bail Bond Agency posted your bond, you need to inform us right away. We can guide you through the process, help communicate with the court, and advise on the best way to handle the warrant.
Turn Yourself In the Right Way
Do not wait for law enforcement to find you. Arranging a voluntary surrender often leads to:
Faster processing
More lenient treatment from the court
A greater likelihood of reinstating your bond
Your attorney or bail agent can help coordinate this.
Can You Fix a Missed Court Date?
In many cases, yes. Michigan courts understand that emergencies happen, but you must take responsibility quickly. Some courts will lift a bench warrant if:
You appear voluntarily
You have a legitimate reason for missing court
You have a history of compliance
Your attorney advocates for you
Ignoring the problem will make it worse. Addressing it quickly shows the court that you are taking the matter seriously.
How to Avoid Missing Future Court Dates
A few simple steps can prevent major problems:
Keep a written and digital calendar with your court dates.
Ask your attorney to send reminders.
Stay in contact with your bail bond agent.
Call the court if you are unsure about a date or time.
Update your mailing address to ensure you receive all notices.
We Are Here to Help
Missing a court date is serious, but you do not have to handle it alone. You Call Bail Bond Agency has helped countless clients across Michigan navigate FTAs, warrants, and bond reinstatements. If you or a loved one has missed court or received notice of a bench warrant, call us right away. Our team is available to guide you through every step so you can get back on track.