What Happens if You Miss Traffic Court in Ontario?

Missing a scheduled traffic court date in Ontario can lead to several serious consequences. Whether it's due to forgetfulness, a misunderstanding of the court date, or an unavoidable emergency, it's crucial to understand what might happen and what steps you can take to address the situation.

Immediate Consequences of Missing Traffic Court

1. Default Conviction
   If you miss your traffic court date in Ontario, the court may convict you of the traffic ticket by default. This means that you will be found guilty in your absence, and the penalties associated with the offence will be applied.
2. Increased Fines and Penalties
   Failing to appear in traffic court can result in additional fines. The initial penalty for the traffic offence will remain, but you might also incur extra costs due to your absence.
3. Licence Suspension
   One of the most severe consequences of missing your traffic court date is the potential suspension of your driver’s licence. If you don’t pay the fines resulting from a default conviction, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) may suspend your licence until all fines are paid.

Steps to Take if You Miss Traffic Court

1. Contact the Court Immediately
   As soon as you realize you have missed your traffic court date in Ontario, contact the court office where your hearing was scheduled and inquire about a reopening application.
2. Prepare and File a Reopening Application
   In many cases, you can prepare and file a reopening application. This involves submitting a formal request to the court to reconsider your case due to your absence. You'll need to provide a valid reason for missing the court date. The process for reopening a traffic ticket case in Ontario requires careful preparation and timely action.
3. File an Appeal if Reopening is Denied
   If your reopening application is denied, you can file an appeal. This process involves taking your case to a higher court and requesting that the decision be reviewed. It’s often beneficial to seek legal advice when filing an appeal to ensure that your application is well-prepared.
4. Seek Legal Advice
   It may be beneficial to consult with a legal professional, such as a paralegal who specializes in traffic law. They can provide guidance on the best course of action and may help in filing a reopening application or an appeal.

Missing a traffic court date in Ontario can lead to serious repercussions, including default convictions, increased fines, and even licence suspension. However, by acting promptly and seeking legal advice if necessary, you can mitigate some of these consequences. Remember to keep track of all court dates and related documents to avoid future complications. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic—take immediate steps to address the missed court date and rectify the issue.

Need Paralegal Assistance?

If you've missed a traffic court date or have questions about your traffic ticket, Traffic Law Paralegal Services can help. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your rights are protected.

Q: What happens if I miss my traffic court date?

A: Missing your traffic court date in Ontario can result in a default conviction, increased fines, and even licence suspension.

Q: Can I reopen my case if I miss traffic court?

A: Yes, you can prepare and file a reopening application, but you will need to provide a valid reason for missing the court date.

Q: What should I do immediately after missing a court date?

A: Contact the court office where your hearing was scheduled and inquire about the reopening process.