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If you violate a court order that demands your appearance in court, such as required with a traffic ticket -- you are subject to a bench warrant.
A bench warrant is issued by a judge, not the police. It orders an alleged wrongdoer to show up in court voluntarily, or face "attachment" or "seizure" by law enforcement -- translation: arrest -- to force you to the "bench." A summons to court isn't yours to evaluate. If the court says, "be here," you had best be there, on time and dressed appropriately. Lateness, sloppy dress, a sassy or sullen manner -- even a cell phone going off at the wrong time -- are all typical demonstrations of contempt which could result in a bench warrant being issued for you. Be 15 minutes late or walk out before the bailiff says "adjourned" -- and you may find a bench warrant in your name the next time you check your mailbox.
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