Traffic infraction and failure to appear

[notevenamouse]

What happens if a non-US citizen commits a traffic infraction on a tourist stay in the US, does not pay the fine, fails to appear in court and leaves the country? Will they be arrested if they should re-enter the US? Is there a statute of limitations? What can one do to set the record straight?

 

[lwpat]

It is likely that a warrant will be issued and entered into the national database. This could complicate any return to the US. There is no statute of limitations so it will stay out there forever until you contact the court and pay the fines.

 

[notevenamouse]

Thanks. How would I find out which court to contact? Is it necessary to let a lawyer handle things?

 

[lwpat]

The court information is on the ticket. You probably don't need an attorney.