Citation Never Given To Me

My question involves a traffic citation from the state of: California

I was recently pulled over and issued a citation. I signed the citation, but was never given the signed copy back. I now have a certified letter waiting for me at the post office (could it be the ticket?).

Should I sign for the ticket or let it get sent back?

Does this show a lack of observation on the officers part that may invalidate the ticket? If there are changes to the ticket after I signed for it, can I argue that?

Thanks,

-Mark

If you have an outstanding ticket. It will not go away. I suggest you contact the police department that issued you the citation. Depending on the charge you may end up with a bench warrant. Which means the next time you get stopped you could end up going to jail for not paying the ticket.

You can argue whatever you want ... but, as you were told, the ticket is not just going away. The only thing they might not be able to hit you for is for failing to appear. However, they can then decide to "long form" the matter and go to the DA with a complaint, then issue a summons or a warrant to compel your attendance.


- Carl