Hagar and Phillips - What Happens If You Miss Court After a Criminal Charge in Lebanon, TN?

What Happens If You Miss Court After a Criminal Charge in Lebanon, TN?

July 31, 2026

Criminal Defense

Missing court after a criminal charge can create serious problems quickly. In Tennessee, failure to appear is unlawful when a person has been properly ordered to attend a court proceeding and does not show up, and the offense itself can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor. Depending on the case, the court may also issue a warrant, increase bond, or impose stricter release conditions.

One of the biggest risks is that a missed court date can turn a manageable situation into a much more complicated one. A judge may issue a bench warrant or capias, which means law enforcement can arrest the person later during a traffic stop or any other contact. In some situations, missing court can also trigger bond forfeiture or an additional failure-to-appear charge.

Another issue is that the consequences may grow over time. Tennessee law says a sentence for failure to appear must run consecutively to the sentence for the original offense, which can make the overall outcome more serious. That is why it is important not to ignore a missed court date, even if the reason seems small or accidental.

If you missed court, the best move is to act quickly. Contacting a lawyer right away can help you understand whether there is a warrant, what the next step should be, and whether the court may allow the matter to be reset or resolved. Taking immediate action can sometimes help reduce the damage and avoid more problems later.

At Hagar & Phillips, we help people deal with criminal charges and the issues that can follow them. Our team understands how stressful a missed court date can be, and we work to guide clients through the process with experience, compassion, and strong advocacy.

If you missed court after a criminal charge in Lebanon, TN, contact Hagar & Phillips today at 615-784-4588 to discuss your situation and learn how we may be able to help.

This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

‍

The information provided on this blog is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical or legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the blog content. Any reliance on this information is at your own risk. This blog may discuss legal topics, but for advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified attorney. We do not assume responsibility for actions taken based on the information herein. We are not liable for any losses or damages resulting from the use of this blog. Links to other websites are not endorsements, and technical issues may affect blog availability. By using this blog, you agree to this disclaimer. Hagar Phillips Attorneys At Law

Recent Articles | View All

Can Police Search Your Phone During a Traffic Stop in Wilson County, Tennessee?

In most cases, police cannot search the contents of your phone during a traffic stop in Tennessee without a warrant. Your phone has strong privacy protections, and officers usually need your consent or a very narrow emergency reason before they can look through it.

What Happens If You’re Charged With Driving on a Suspended License in Wilson County, Tennessee?

Being charged with driving on a suspended license in Tennessee can create more problems than many people expect. In most situations, it is a Class B misdemeanor, which can carry up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500; if you have prior convictions, the charge can become a Class A misdemeanor with harsher penalties.

What We’re Reading: Federal Criminal Cases in Middle Tennessee Are Heating Up

A recent federal enforcement action in Nashville shows just how serious criminal cases can become in Middle Tennessee. Federal and state leaders announced indictments against dozens of people as part of a new Homeland Security Task Force, with charges including drug trafficking, carjacking, assault on law enforcement, firearms offenses, and immigration offenses.