Municipal Court Summons - How bad are they?

The NOPD and other jurisdictions have begun to rely more heavily on Municipal Court Summons in lieu of arrest. This can seem like a relief—receiving a ticket to appear in court instead of being arrested and booked into jail. However, don’t be misled into thinking that a summons is less serious than an arrest.

A court summons is essentially an arrest without the physical booking process. It still carries significant legal consequences if not handled properly. An arrest warrant will be issued if you fail to appear at your scheduled court date. Additionally, the charges associated with municipal summonses are often misdemeanors, meaning that a guilty plea can lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record.

Never attend court alone when dealing with a summons. Misdemeanor charges can result in harsh penalties, and in some cases, they can be used to enhance future charges into felonies. Even if it seems like just a traffic ticket, a summons can have serious legal repercussions.

If you’ve received a ticket or summons, always consult a criminal defense lawyer to understand your options. An experienced attorney can help reduce the charges or, in some cases, even get the case dismissed. Don't face this alone—our legal team is here to help.

Call us today to discuss your options. Remember…When No One’s Carin’ Call McLaren! (504) 300-8338