Why Cops Rarely Show Up to Court and What It Means for You

When it comes to avoiding tickets, many people rely on the idea that cops won't show up to court. However, this is not a reliable strategy. Let's delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon and explore the risks.

The Complexity of Police Workloads and Court Schedules

Police officers face demanding work schedules, and their ability to appear in court can vary significantly depending on the department, the court, and their personal work ethic.

Departmental Policies and Work Loads

In many departments, officers are expected to work long shifts, such as nights and early mornings. For example, an officer might work midnight shifts, finishing at 7 AM, and then have court appearances scheduled for 9:30 AM and 2 PM. According to the officer's policy, they can get 2 hours of overtime between their shifts, but it's crucial that they use this time wisely. If the officer takes this time for rest, they might miss crucial court appearances.

Court Scheduling and Overtime

Some busy courts schedule officers for specific days to minimize overtime. This approach not only reduces costs but also makes it easier to reschedule cases for defendants rather than officers. In such scenarios, officers might have more predictability in their schedules, which can increase their likelihood of appearing in court.

Consequences of Absence in Court

Police officers have a professional and legal obligation to appear in court when required. Neglecting this duty can lead to significant consequences.

Administrative Disciplinary Actions

From 35 years of experience as a police officer, I can attest that missing court can result in administrative discipline. This could range from a formal warning to termination, depending on the severity of the infraction.

Consequences from the Court

Law enforcement officers who fail to appear in court might face penalties from the court itself. If an officer is subpoenaed, they could find themselves in legal trouble for their non-attendance.

Traffic Violations vs. Felonies

It's worth noting that the likelihood of a police officer's absence varies significantly based on the type of violation. For routine parking or traffic violations, officers are generally less likely to show up, as these cases often involve shorter hearings and less regulatory oversight. However, for felonies, officers are highly dependable, as these cases require thorough legal proceedings and a record of accountability.

Conclusion

While missing court can sometimes be an extraordinary weekend getaway for law enforcement officers, it's essential to understand the legal and professional consequences. Using this non-appearance as a strategy to avoid tickets is risky and unreliable. It's always best to attend court proceedings to avoid any potential legal complications.