4. What is the penalty for missing a hearing?

Defendants in criminal cases can often skip routine appearances as long as they have a private Beatty criminal defense attorney appearing on their behalf. Otherwise, defendants risk getting a bench warrant for their arrest if they miss a mandatory court appearance, and they may even be charged with failure to appear (NRS 199.335). (Note that there is a 30-day grace period in traffic citation matters.)

Once a judge has issued a bench warrant, the defendant is advised to contact a criminal defense lawyer. The attorney can file a motion to quash the bench warrant, and defendants can usually skip the warrant hearing if their attorney is there.

When parties in civil matters miss a court hearing, the judge may issue a default judgment. This could allow the adverse party to go after their wages and bank accounts.

Due to COVID-19, the court may allow certain parties to conduct hearings telephonically. Contact the clerk at (775) 553-2951 for more information.

5. Is there an alternative to paying a fine?

The judge usually allows defendants to do community service if they cannot pay a fine. Defendants can work off $10 with an hour of service. But defendants need to get the judge’s approval first.

6. Do I have to get my own attorney?

Judges will appoint a public defender to defendants in criminal cases who cannot afford private counsel. Defendants do have the option of representing themselves, but it is not advised.

7. Is the parking free?

Yes. The lot in front of the courthouse is free.

8. What should I wear?

Anyone who enters BJC is advised to dress conservatively. No shorts, tank tops, offensive clothing, or bare feet.

9. Are there translators there?

Not usually. Non-English speakers should call the clerk at (775) 553-2951 to see if they can arrange for an interpreter to be there. Otherwise, people can bring a family member or friend to translate for them.

10. Should I leave my guns in the car?

Firearms are not allowed in the courthouse, and there is a metal detector at the main entrance. So leave any weapons in your vehicle or at home.

11. Can I get my records sealed?

Any case that resolves in Beatty Justice Court is sealable. But certain serious cases that transfer to District Court may not be sealed.

Dismissed charges can be sealed immediately. Otherwise, there is a wait.

The record seal process takes months. People are encouraged to hire an attorney to manage it.

12. Where do I appeal my case?

Parties may appeal their BJC cases to the Nye County District Court, located at 1520 E. Basin Avenue #105, Pahrump, NV 89060. The phone number is 775-751-4210. Meanwhile, district court cases get appealed to the Nevada Supreme Court.

Our Beatty criminal defense attorneys appear in Nevada courts in Las Vegas and throughout the state.