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Benjamin Wilson7 said:The judge thinks you're just playing silent games. But you’re pointing out that your summons clearly states they can hold the hearing even if you don't show up.
Look, nobody is coming to pick you up. They'll just mail the decision straight to your house, and then it's up to you whether you want to file an appeal or not.
The judge is definitely prioritizing efficiency here—basically, get it done fast and move on. And since you won't be there to explain the circumstances, you might find the fine ends up being a bit steeper than expected.
Actually, the notice says my presence is only required if I'm needed for the sentencing. Whether or not they actually need me is the part I can't predict.
What happens if they do decide they need me?
To put it bluntly, I had a bit of a mishap with a joint and misread my court date. Now I’m sitting at home feeling pretty foolish, sipping coffee and realizing I missed the hearing three days ago...
What I really need to know is:
- What does this mistake actually imply for my case? Am I going to run into serious trouble?
- Since the summons mentioned the hearing could proceed without me, does that mean I’ll automatically be hit with the fine suggested by $1667, which I honestly can't afford right now? Also, is there any room to appeal the ruling, and if so, what are my actual chances?
- Will I receive a new notice, or is the police going to show up at my door at 5:00 AM to take me in? Is it possible to reach out to someone, apologize, and just turn myself in voluntarily so I don't look like a fugitive in front of my neighbors?
- Should I expect the judge to hand down the maximum penalty during the next scheduled hearing because of this?