If you're charged with a misdemeanor, do you have to go to court? The
answer to that is 95% of the time, yes. Now, there are certain
circumstances, if you get a lawyer, they can work that out and they can
talk to the prosecutor about getting continuances, or getting continued
date. There are certain rules that will allow that in D.C., but 95% of the
time, you will have to go to court.
You've signed a notice, usually with a police officer or court assistant
that says you'll return to court on a certain date. That's your statement.
So 95% of the time, yes. But if you have additional questions, talk to an
experienced criminal lawyer.
