What Happens When a Court Date on a Speeding Ticket Doesn't Match the Actual Court Date?

Court date errors can result in Failure to Appear warrants.

There are specific errors made on a speeding ticket that force the ticket to become invalid. These include the wrong license plate or location of the violation. Smaller errors, such as in spelling, are not a cause for dismissal of the ticket. If the court misstates the actual court date, this will likely have no effect on the ticket, especially if you are aware of the new date.

Missing Court

If you fail to appear at court, regardless of the discrepancy, it is possible you will face consequences. These consequences may include a bench warrant with the charge of Failure to Appear. This could result in jail time and additional fees.

Rescheduling

You may be able to reschedule your court date if you miss the original date because of this discrepancy. Contact the court through the phone number listed on the back of the ticket to ask for a new court date. This may result in paying a "bail" price, as if you were bailed out for missing court.

Avoiding Fees

Mention that your ticket had the incorrect date and you may avoid fees and possible jail time if you miss your court date because of an incorrect date. It is best to call as soon as you discover you have missed your date, to try to resolve the matter right away.

References

• Florida Drivers: FAQ for Traffic Tickets
• SC Self Service: Traffic Court Dates