One of the more frustrating occurrences for a criminal attorney in Worcester County, MD is when, after successfully negotiating a reasonable bail amount for a client, that client doesn’t show up for the next court date. Jurisdictions and courts set bail to ensure that defendants actually will appear in court, as otherwise they will lose the money they paid or the collateral they provided.
Bail Jumping
Disappearing after release is commonly called bail jumping, but legally it is known as “failure to appear.” The action usually results in another criminal charge being issued for this person.
Research has found that a very high percentage of people released on low bail or no bail appear in court as scheduled. That is prompting judges to follow this lead, as jurisdictions try to cope with overcrowded jails with many inmates who have not even been convicted of a crime yet. Nevertheless, occasionally a person makes the unwise decision to jump bail, after which, a bench warrant for arrest is issued. The person is usually given a certain number of days to surrender voluntarily.
Persuading a Judge to Allow Continued Freedom
It is less likely that a judge will allow this person out on bail a second time, but a criminal attorney in Worcester County, MD is willing to make the effort of persuasion. If the defendant surrendered on time, that is more promising than if law enforcement or another investigator had to track the person down. If the defendant can come up with a convincing reason for not appearing as scheduled, that also will help.
Possible Persuasive Reasons
What are some reasons a judge might find acceptable for failure to appear at a hearing or trial? A serious illness or injury that has been verified by a doctor would qualify. An Ocean City Lawyer will vouch for the defendant in court and present documentation confirming the defendant was laid up, although the prosecution may justifiably demand to know why no attempt at communication was made. A vehicle accident or breakdown also might have prevented appearing as scheduled, although the question about lack of communication remains. This defendant needs a lawyer such as Marc A. Zeve for legal representation in these matters.
