Mandatory Court Appearance Louisiana

If you are reading this article, then you are trying to understand why you are required to go to court for your speeding ticket in Louisiana. Why can’t you skip the hassle and pay the ticket? In Louisiana, if you have a speeding ticket that is 15 miles per hour or over you will be required to go to court. One reason for mandatory appearances is the Louisiana speeding statute doesn’t spell out  fine amounts for excessive speeding. Judges have wide discretion of the possible fines and punishments which can include jail time for the most serious violations.

It’s a good thing that you can’t pay for your ticket right away. Most people don’t realize if you pay the ticket before court it is the same as pleading guilty, and one speeding ticket conviction can increase your insurance rates by over 20% per year!

A traffic attorney will work to get your case dismissed or reduced to a nonmoving violation that will not hurt your driving record. In some jurisdictions, your attorney may help you get diversion or take advantage of article 892.1. Most of the time if you hire a traffic attorney you will not be required to go to court.

Need help with your speeding ticket or traffic case?
I offer a 100% free consultation, you can call me at (504) 547-7776.

What does a mandatory court appearance mean?

If you have a mandatory court appearance it means your ticket cannot be paid online before your court date. It also means that you or your attorney will physically have to go to court. Most jurisdictions will allow an attorney to go on your behalf which is very convenient for most people especially if you are from out of town.

What if I miss my mandatory court appearance?

Skipping court is never a good thing and can have serious consequences. First, the judge will issue an attachment for your arrest. You could be pulled over for anything and there is a good chance the officer will see the attachment and bring you to jail. Second, you will have contempt of court fees added to your case. Third, your driver’s license can be suspended until the matter is resolved. The best thing is to get to court or hire an attorney to go on your behalf.

Examples of Louisiana traffic violations that require mandatory appearances.

  • Careless operation / Reckless Operation
  • Driving with a suspended license
  • DWI
  • Hit and run