Legal Question in DUI Law in California

I live in Hawaii, I had a dui in CA. I had arrangements to do community service in Hawaii but was unable to complete in the time allowed. I called the service in CA to get extension and they said I had to go to CA before a judge to get extension. I had no way to do that and still can not go to CA as I am disabled now and have no money to go. I did call LAPD and they said I have a bench warrant now. What can I do? I had a friend try to go to court for me and the clerk would not let him see the judge for me with the paperwork I sent him. I have no money for an attny, can I get a public defender? What can I do now? Can I see a judge here in Hawaii for the case in CA? Please help, I have had a perfect record my whole life and now I have a warrant.


Asked on 2/12/13, 12:50 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

You need to learn the simple realities of the criminal system as it applies to you. 1. The courts are not here to be helpful to you, only to punish and penalize. 2. Only you and/or your attorney can appear in court on your case, and only in the sentencing court. 3. You were given a break by your DA and judge when they allowed something other than jail time, and allowed it to be done out of state. 4. You screwed up by not complying with the court's orders; no excuses accepted. 5. Only your sentencing judge can do anything on your case. 6. If you can't hire private counsel here to appear for you , and "can't" come here yourself, then try calling the Public Defender office in that court and seek help and advice. 7. If you don't deal with this problem properly, then that arrest warrant will be a serious problem for you. Contact with law enforcement anywhere will result in your arrest.

Now, if this is in SoCal courts, and you decide you would like to hire counsel after all, feel free to contact me. It may be possible to persuade the judge, for 'good cause' to extend your time to comply with the court's orders.

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Answered on 2/12/13, 11:32 am


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