What is the consequence of skipping a traffic court appearance in Massachusetts?

Skipping a traffic court appearance in Massachusetts can lead to serious consequences, with one of the primary outcomes being the issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest. This means that if you fail to appear in court as required, the judge may order a bench warrant to be issued, allowing law enforcement to apprehend you at a later date. This situation exacerbates the original issue of the traffic violation and can lead to additional legal problems, such as further fines or even criminal charges.

While it is true that a failure to appear may lead to other repercussions, such as penalties related to licensing or fines, the immediate and significant consequence specifically linked to non-appearance is the potential for a bench warrant. This enforcement action underscores the importance of adhering to court obligations, as failing to appear puts individuals at risk of escalating legal issues and complicates their ability to resolve the original traffic matter.