I got a traffic ticket. I paid ticket and case status says, "bail forfeiture". What does it mean? Do I have to appear in court?

Question

I got a traffic ticket. I paid ticket and case status says, "bail forfeiture". What does it mean? Do I have to appear in court?

Anonymous Aug 2, 2012 6 views 2 answers

I got a speeding ticket in a county that is different from where I live. Both counties are in CA though. It is an infraction. I panicked and quickly paid the fine. I should have waited for the courtesy notice but I did not. Now the case status says "bail forfeiture". What does it mean ? I called the court and the support representative said I do not have to appear in court and "bail forfeiture" means that the ticket is paid for? She said I can even take the traffic school by sending $63 as a check. With the status , "bail forfeiture" on the case... Do i still have to appear in court ? If I do not appear in court , is it a felony? Am I fine ? should I be worried about something ? Thanks

Russell Rubin · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:38:51+00:00

When you paid the fine early you actually posted bail. When the court date came up and you didn't appear you forfeited the bail because you were found guilty. The case is over. The information from the clerk was correct. You do not need to appear or worry about this any more.

Dave BahrLitigation LawyerEugene, OR · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:38:51+00:00

Generally, a bail forfeiture is understood to be the payment of the fine. By paying it, the person cited avoids having to appear in court and the matter is concluded, no further action is required. This sounds like what the court staff told you, I would believe what she said and consider it done.

I got a traffic ticket. I paid ticket and case status says, "bail forfeiture". What does it mean? Do I have to appear in court?

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