Parking lights

[wendys8861]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

My husband recently was pulled over for driving with his parking lights on (new car, thought regular lights were on). He was cited and at that time, the officer discovered there was a Failure to Appear from 1991 ago for some traffic infraction from another county. The officer attempted to find out about the warrant, but said they couldn't locate the judge who signed it and let him go. My husband is not aware of any traffic violations or unpaid tickets, or they would have been taken care of. His license has always been active, so this has never affected his ability to drive.
He is scheduled to go to court in a couple of weeks.

Having never had any traffic violations myself, I have a couple of questions.

Does the age of the warrant matter? Is there a statute of limitations? If there is a fine associated with this, should we expect interest to have been accruing on it for 18 years? Is it suggested we talk to an attorney before going to court?

Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks.

[JETX]

Originally Posted by wendys8861

Does the age of the warrant matter?

No.

Is there a statute of limitations?

No.

If there is a fine associated with this, should we expect interest to have been accruing on it for 18 years?

Yes.

Is it suggested we talk to an attorney before going to court?

I always recommend services of appropriate legal counsel, but a correct answer would require the FULL facts of the original charge and his defense/explanation.

[CdwJava]

I suspect it was not because they could not locate the judge, but that they could not confirm the warrant (i.e. no one could locate the hard copy at the originating agency). In 18 years on the job I have never sought out a judge to confirm a warrant - it just is not necessary.

As JETX's reply infers, this will remain with him until he gets it taken care of.

- Carl

[wendys8861]

Originally Posted by CdwJava

I suspect it was not because they could not locate the judge, but that they could not confirm the warrant (i.e. no one could locate the hard copy at the originating agency). In 18 years on the job I have never sought out a judge to confirm a warrant - it just is not necessary.

As JETX's reply infers, this will remain with him until he gets it taken care of.

- Carl

Thanks for clarifying. I'm not sure how these things work! Sounds like it's going to be expensive....probably should consult a legal professional.

Thanks for the responses.