Here’s What It Means in Arizona
If you’ve received an Order to Appear in Court in Arizona, it’s critical to take the notice seriously. This is a mandatory legal summons—not a request. Whether it involves a criminal charge, family court matter, or juvenile hearing, failing to appear can lead to arrest warrants, fines, or even jail time.
At Rideout Law Group, we represent individuals across Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, and the broader Arizona area who need help navigating these court orders and protecting their rights.
What Is an Order to Appear?
An order to appear is a formal command from the court requiring you to be present on a specific date and time. It may be delivered through:
- A police-issued citation
- A court-generated notice
- A subpoena
- A family law petition
Common reasons for receiving an order include criminal charges (DUI, drug possession, assault), family law matters (custody or divorce), or juvenile defense cases. The order typically outlines the type of hearing—such as an arraignment, sentencing, or evidentiary hearing—and where it will take place.
What Happens if You Don’t Appear?
Failing to appear in court in Arizona can trigger serious legal consequences, including:
- A bench warrant for your arrest
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Additional charges for Failure to Appear (FTA) under A.R.S. § 13-2506
- Loss of bail or bond money
- A default judgment in family or civil cases
In criminal cases, the court may proceed without you, and you may lose the opportunity to defend yourself.
Can You Reschedule or Dispute It?
If you have a valid reason for missing your scheduled appearance—such as illness, transportation issues, or a scheduling conflict—you may be able to:
- File a motion to continue
- Submit a written explanation or affidavit to the court
- Have your attorney appear on your behalf
The key is to act before the hearing date, not after. An experienced Arizona defense lawyer can help you file the proper motions and communicate with the court to minimize legal damage.
Why You Should Hire an Attorney
An experienced attorney can:
- Explain the implications of your order
- Appear in court on your behalf (in many misdemeanor cases)
- Negotiate with the prosecutor or judge
- Help you avoid a warrant or criminal penalties
At Rideout Law Group, our team of attorneys—led by Brad Rideout, Steven Eckhardt, and Carolyn Keist-Gilbert—has decades of experience fighting for clients across Maricopa and Mohave County. Whether you’re facing a DUI, family law issue, or juvenile case, we’re here to help.
Get Legal Help Today
If you’ve received a court order in Arizona, don’t wait. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your freedom and future.
📍 Offices in Scottsdale & Lake Havasu City
📞 Call (833) 854-8181 or contact us online for a free consultation
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.