Have you received a friendly letter from your local Law Enforcement agency reminding you of an unresolved ticket? They may suggest that you have a certain amount of time to “come in and take care” of the ticket before more serious action is taken.

Be aware that an arrest warrant has probably already been issued and “taking care” of the matter will likely result in your arrest. I learned of this simple technique several years ago when I worked as an investigator in a Florida Sheriff’s Office. The guys in the warrants section sent out these friendly letters because it was an easy way to get unsuspecting people to turn themselves in. I was surprised that the letters worked, but the tone was such that people believed that they would be getting a break if they acted fast. Create a sense of urgency and people will act. I saw this as was quick way to harvest the “low hanging fruit”.

I am not suggesting that you avoid resolving these old traffic tickets. On the contrary, I know that they cannot be ignored, lest you get picked up when you least expect it. I am going to tell you that you need to take control of the situation and resolve the matter on your terms. If you receive a letter telling you of an unresolved ticket, assume that a warrant has already been issued and that you will be arrested. Therefore, before going to the Law Enforcement Agency, arrange for your release. Either make sure that you have the cash for bail or talk to a professional Bail Agent and tell him of your situation.

Depending upon the jurisdiction, you may be able to arrange for a “walk-thru” bond wherein the warrant will be cancelled, bond posted and a new court date set without your having to be arrested. Do not delay, however. Get in front of the situation and take control as soon as possible.  I recently bonded out several individuals who thought they had more important things to do and delayed handing the matter. They came into contact with the Police and were arrested at very inconvenient times. They also had to spend time in a holding cell with real criminals while they waited for bail to be arranged.

My jurisdiction reports that more arrest warrants are issued for unresolved traffic matters than any other class of offense. Don’t let this happen to you. Be proactive and contact a professional to help you resolve this matter. Don’t let yourself be subjected to arrest and detention in an over-crowded jail filled with real criminals because you have “more important” things to do.

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