Paying to close your case is referred to as a bail forfeiture. Be aware that certain offenses may have additional legal consequences beyond the fine amount when a bail forfeiture is processed.
Common offenses that have additional consequences include, but are not limited to:
- Littering
- Operating Vehicle Without Insurance
- Using Handheld Device While Operating Vehicle
- Speeding in a School Zone
- Failure to Obey Flashing Amber/Red School Bus Lights
- Approaching Emergency Vehicle
- Illegally Distributing a Tobacco or E-Cig Product
Additional penalities may include the following:
- Additional penalties from the Utah Driver's License Division including, but not limited to, the suspension of your license, requirement to take specific education courses or being required to carry SR22 insurance.
- Being unable to get or keep some licenses, permits or jobs.
- Being unable to get or keep benefits such as public housing or education.
- Receiving a harsher sentence if you are convicted of a similar offense in the future. Which could include a higher fine, and/or the case being charged with a higher classification (misdemeanor or felony depending on the violation).
- If you are not a United States Citizen, entering a bail forfeiture (pay to close) may result in your deportation, removal, exclusion from admission to the United States, or denial of citizenship.
This information is provided for educational purposes and does not provide detailed information about collateral consequences which other agencies may take. Speaking directly with agencies like the Utah Driver's License Division can provide more information on actions they may take for certain offenses once a bail forfeiture is processed.
The court can not provide legal advice, so speaking with an attorney is advised to receive further information about these possible consequences.
Details about specific violations and potential consequences can be found by searching the following resources:
